Illegal orchid trade valued at $30 million a year

The illegal export of rare orchids to China is worth about US$30 million a year, according to an executive member of the Myanmar Horticulturalists Association.

Dr. Saw Lwin also said the trade thrived in Northern Shan State and that if it could bring revenue to the government if it was made legal.

There are more than 20 orchid species used in herbal medicine, more than 10 of which are illegally exported to China to make health tonics and anti-cancer medicines, he said.

source: Eleven Myanmar

http://elevenmyanmar.com/business/3110-illegal-orchid-trade-valued-at-30-million-a-year