The Thiri Mingalar Market is more than just a wholesale market; it is also a key driver of the local economy and a logistics hub for Myanmar's agricultural products. Before its current location in Hlaing District, the market had a complex history of relocation and development:

History and Origins

Yangon's original large wholesale fruit and vegetable market was Bayint Naung Market, located near the current site. However, due to rapidly increasing traffic congestion in the city and limited space for expansion, the local government decided to relocate the large wholesale market to a larger location.

• Relocation and Opening: Thiri Mingalar Market officially opened on December 24, 2010. The government constructed modern buildings and infrastructure to accommodate the vendors and wholesalers relocating from the original Bayint Naung Market.

• Objective: The primary goal of the relocation is to reduce traffic congestion into central Yangon and to establish a standardized wholesale center capable of handling a large volume of agricultural and general products.

Structure and Operations

The Thiri Mingalar Market covers a large area. The market is systematically divided into trading zones to support a wide variety of economic activities:

• Size and Number of Stalls: The market has over 4,000 stalls and warehouse buildings, supporting thousands of entrepreneurs.

• 24-Hour Operation: This market is known as the only fresh market in Yangon open 24 hours a day. Operating hours are divided into the following:

• Early morning (00:00 - 06:00): This is the busiest wholesale trading period. Large trucks from various parts of the country, such as the Ayeyarwady, Magwe, and Bago regions, bring produce here for distribution.

• Daytime (06:00 - 18:00): This is the time for retailers and small wholesalers who purchase goods for resale in smaller markets throughout Yangon.

Main Product Categories:

• Fruits and Vegetables: This is the heart of the market, offering all seasonal Myanmar produce, including some imported goods.

• Seafood and Meat: There is a section selling fresh seafood and some meat, taking advantage of the proximity to the Hlaing River for transport.

• Spices and Grains: This market offers a wide range of spices, chilies, onions, garlic, and various grains for wholesale trade.

• Miscellaneous Goods: There is a zone selling clothing, household goods, and general consumer goods.

Social and Economic Importance

As a wholesale hub, Tirimingala Market significantly impacts national food prices and provides jobs for tens of thousands of people, including traders, porters, truck drivers, and other logistics providers. Therefore, the market is an important observation point for understanding the market mechanisms and supply chains of agricultural products in Myanmar.

• Taxi/Private Car: This is the most convenient method.

• Bus: There are several local buses running along the roads surrounding the market.

• Best Time to Visit: Visit in the early morning (around 3:00 AM - 6:00 AM) to experience the busiest wholesale market and get the freshest fruits and vegetables.

• Bargaining: Even though it's a wholesale market, bargains are possible on some items, especially clothing and household items.

• Cleanliness: As this is a large wet/wet market, be prepared for wet or soggy surfaces and wear appropriate footwear

• Traffic: Traffic around the market can be congested during peak transport times, so be sure to allow plenty of time.

Admission Fees:

• No admission fee

Opening Hours:

• Open 24 hours a day, every day (with the wet market and main wholesale section open 24 hours a day)