The number of people who have died after consuming Chinese alcohol seems to be on the rise in Chin state and Kalemyo, Sagaing division, western Burma.

A report said that 50 percent of the patients in government hospitals and private clinics are suffering from lung and liver infection in Chin state and Kalemyo area after drinking Chinese made alcohol.

“Our medical records say the number of dead is between 25 and 30 because of consuming Chinese alcohol. Most are about 30 years old. The alcohol affects the lung and liver. When they arrived at the hospital it was too late,” said Mr. Hei Lian Hmung, medical staff of Dr. Thanbiluai’s Wesley Hospital.

The alcohol from China are Dry Gin, Mekhong, 7 Up and Rum. These are made by Chinese private business companies and there is no certification from the government. Profit is the main criteria.

“We used to buy the alcohol in Shwely town, in the Sino-Myanmar border area. They are turning wild flowers into alcohol in different colours. They never have such alcohol. However, we can buy it cheap and resell in Burma at a premium,” said a trader.

Current market prices of Dry Gin is Kyat 1500 per bottle, Mekhong Kyat 2000 and 7UP Kyat 700 in Kalemyo. These are most in demand.

“Most people have this alcohol as prices are very low. The option is Myanmar Rum and BE made by the Burmese government. Now I’m suffering from a stomach ache and am admitted to hospital for having the alcohol. But I’ll quit alcohol as the doctor has advised me,” said a resident of Hakha city.

In Chin state, the number of alcohol drinkers is decreasing as alcohol licenses have been taken by Some Christian Church groups.