Overview

Investment liberalisation positions Myanmar manufacturing subsectors for growth
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Myanmar’s manufacturing sector reached a turning point in 2018 as liberalisation, tax reforms, infrastructure improvements and the development of special economic zones (SEZs) helped turn the country from a low-cost regional production base to a rising manufacturing destination with capacity on the rise. The sector has an advantage due to the country’s relatively low operating costs, favourable…

Overview

Digital and precision farming practices are poised to bolster global agriculture resiliency
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Against a backdrop of increasingly severe and financially straining climate events and natural disasters, technology is poised to play an important role in maintaining and improving global agricultural output. The adoption of digital and precision farming practices has been shown to improve crop resiliency, and boost productivity and incomes, particularly in emerging markets where small-scale…

Overview

Sow and reap: Rapid development of a vital sector promises increased yields
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On the back of inefficient government policies and limited public expenditure, the agriculture sector dwindled under military rule. However, in the wake of economic liberalisation, increased investment and structural reform, the sector’s potential is ready to be unlocked. In recent years efforts have been made to enhance agricultural output with greater investment in production and post-harvest infrastructure.…

Overview

Policy reforms and infrastructure upgrades promise growth in Myanmar mining
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Myanmar is well known for the untapped potential of its extensive mineral portfolio. Home to the world’s largest deposits of jade and some of the most sought-after rubies, it also has substantial deposits of lucrative metals as well as industrial minerals. Despite significant deposits, foreign investment across Myanmar’s mining sector has lagged behind other key industries due to misadministration,…

Overview

Myanmar attracts growing number of tourists
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Myanmar has emerged in recent years as a sought-after tourist destination in a region known for its tourism attractions. Since the country opened its doors through political reform in 2011, many have been attracted to its diverse landscapes, rich culture and heritage. While infrastructure challenges remain, and low hotel occupancy rates affect many small businesses, a decline in visitors from…

Overview

Security and engagement key to further growth in the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions industry
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Countries and regions across the world have long understood the potential of the MICE segment as a vehicle to drive high-value tourism and economic development. In recent decades this has led to significant investment, with nations working to position themselves as centres for the industry, both regionally and globally, aided by greater air connectivity. At the same time, the industry has been…

Overview

Greater public and foreign spending improve quality of the Myanmar health system
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Myanmar’s health care sector has grown considerably in recent years as a result of higher public expenditure and increasing foreign direct investment (FDI). Aside from implementing a range of reforms, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has been proactive in delivering programmes aimed at fighting both communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) nationwide, in accordance with the first phase…

Overview

Standards rising across the Myanmar educational system
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Since Myanmar’s democratic transition began in 2011, the education sector has undergone a significant transformation under successive administrations. Higher government spending and the easing of restrictions on foreign investment in private schools have paved the way for increased enrolment rates and improvements in education infrastructure. Despite these developments, however, notable demographic…

Overview

A guide to Myanmar's tax framework
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After having completed the first phase (2011/12 to 2016/17) of Reform Action Plan 2012, the Myanmar tax authorities recently embarked on the second phase (2017/18 to 2021/22). This is set to push forward its reform process, aimed at establishing an effective and fair tax system in order to increase the country’s tax income by enacting new tax laws. The first phase was focused on broadening…

Overview

A guide to Myanmar's legal system
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The long-overdue Myanmar Companies Law (MCL), which the government passed in December 2017, was put into practice in August 2018, together with the rollout of Myanmar Companies Online (MyCO) and the issuance of the Myanmar Companies Regulations. Among the most notable changes of the MCL are: • The reduction of the minimum number of shareholders from two to one, and directors from two to…