WFP warns global fuel shocks and domestic conflict worsen Myanmar food insecurity

Mizzima

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) announced a timely EUR 8 million contribution from the European Union (EU) on 19 May to address deepening hunger and skyrocketing commodity prices across Myanmar.

The text of the statement is as follows.

Since late February, fuel prices have tripled nationwide and the cost of a basic food basket comprising rice, oil, pulses and salt has risen sharply across several regions, with the steepest increases seen in conflict-affected areas. On average, staple food prices are up 18 percent nationwide, with Magway Region recording the highest increase at 38 percent, followed by Kayin and Rakhine states at 32 and 31 percent respectively.

The convergence of the ongoing armed conflict and global fuel shortages is compounding hardship for communities. One in four people in Myanmar – 12.4 million – are acutely food insecure, while 3.7 million remain displaced by ongoing conflict. For families with limited income, savings or access to livelihoods, these price increases are pushing even basic meals further out of reach.

“As global fuel prices surge, basic necessities in Myanmar have become more and more inaccessible to millions of people who have already been struggling to get by,” said Jessica Chaix, who oversees EU humanitarian programmes in Myanmar. “The EU remains committed to providing a vital lifeline of food and nutrition assistance, ensuring that life-saving assistance continues to reach those most in need in this difficult time.”

The crisis also threatens the upcoming monsoon planting season. Myanmar farmers are cutting back on fertilizer due to high prices and limited supplies. A 50 percent drop in fertilizer use could reduce national agricultural output by up to 15 percent, further inflating prices and worsening food insecurity into 2027.

“The humanitarian situation is no longer just driven by domestic factors such as the ongoing conflict global shocks are now reaching markets, farms and households across the country,” said Michael Dunford, WFP Country Director for Myanmar. “This EU contribution allows us to act now, ensuring that families who have already lost so much are not pushed beyond the point of no return.”

Funding from EU Humanitarian Aid will enable WFP to deliver emergency food assistance to families affected by conflict, displacement, economic hardship and worsening food insecurity, provide specialised nutrition support for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and young children, and strengthen inter-agency coordination on food security.

The EU and WFP remain steadfast partners in the fight against hunger in Myanmar, committed to maintaining a lifeline for the millions who rely on food and nutrition assistance for their daily survival.