"A high-ranking Myanmar official has called for sustainable development in natural rubber plantation to avoid degradation of forest, biodiversity and ecosystem. Dr. Aung Thu, minister of agriculture, livestock and irrigation, made the remarks at the International Rubber Conference 2019, which began in Nay Pyi Taw Monday, according to the ministry Tuesday. Aung Thu called for supporting rubber growers and increasing the export substitution for rubber products to expand market for the planters and create more job opportunities. He advised to adopt policies for sustainable development of the industry, cooperate with local and international organizations, support the production of high-quality rubber and provide assistance to small-scale rubber planters. Myanmar joined the Association of Natural Rubber Producing Countries and became a member of International Rubber Research and Development Board in December 2018..."