Myanmar

International retail investors have flocked to Myanmar’s food and beverage (F&B) segment in recent years, drawn by a rising middle class with disposable incomes for F&B purchases, though not yet more expensive internationally branded fashion and consumer goods. Recognising the growth potential, a host of US fast-food chains have moved...

Myanmar’s fertile soils hold significant potential to lift the country’s economy from a basic grain producer to a high-value goods exporter. However, the evolution of farming has long been stifled by limited public spending, a legacy of unconstructive land policy, partial infrastructure gaps and limited access to finance. In addition, many...

While the financial services industry in Myanmar continues to move forward, the provision of funding remains the biggest roadblock to small-hold farmers. For the most part, banks lack flexibility due to rigid interest rates and overprotective collateral-based lending, which hinders their ability to provide finance to farmers. Likewise, a lack...

How would you assess the development of human capital within the telecoms industry since the liberalisation of the sector?

The expansion of Myanmar’s telecoms market continues to live up to its early promise, with the reform of the industry viewed as the biggest economic success since the military ceded power in 2011. The dramatic surge in network coverage has empowered local businesses and provided remote villages with the opportunity to connect to the outside...

After years of rapid growth following the start of the transition to civilian government in 2011, Myanmar’s real estate sector slowed in 2015 and 2016 as a supply surge of new office space weighed on rents and occupancy. Condominiums and high-end residential property also saw growth slow, with some stakeholders arguing rents have been...