New Zealand

Business Opportunities in Myanmar for UK Exporters
1. Introduction & Snapshot

Myanmar, population 55 million, is a resource-rich Southeast Asian country undergoing political and economic transition. UK exporters can find opportunities in infrastructure, agribusiness, energy, and telecommunications, although careful risk assessment is essential due to political volatility.

2. Economic Overview

GDP (2023): ~USD 80 billion
Growth: 2–3%

Key sectors:

Agriculture: rice, pulses, beans, teak

Energy: hydropower, natural gas

Infrastructure: roads, bridges, ports

Telecommunications & digital services: growing mobile and internet adoption

3. Trade Relations with the UK

UK exports: machinery, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, IT solutions, beverages

UK imports: natural resources, agricultural products, textiles

Trade is modest but growing; opportunities exist in high-value goods and services

4. Market Opportunities

Infrastructure & Construction: Roads, bridges, urban planning, construction technology

Agriculture & Agritech: Irrigation, post-harvest processing, sustainable farming

Energy & Renewables: Hydropower consultancy, solar, energy efficiency

Telecommunications & ICT: Software, mobile solutions, network infrastructure

Professional Services: Financial, legal, and project management consultancy

5. Regulatory & Business Environment

Regulatory environment is evolving; foreign investment encouraged in select sectors

Political and economic risks require careful due diligence

IP protection limited; local legal guidance essential

6. Cultural & Consumer Insights

Business culture: hierarchical, relationship-driven, formal

Burmese is primary language; English common in business dealings

Consumers are price-sensitive; urban middle class values quality and imported products

7. Challenges & Risks

Political uncertainty and regulatory unpredictability

Limited infrastructure outside major cities

Currency and financial restrictions

Small but growing middle-class consumer base

8. Case Study

UK firms have delivered construction consultancy, renewable energy solutions, and agritech equipment, showing that long-term engagement and high-value expertise are critical for success.

9. Practical Entry Tips

Partner with government-approved local distributors or joint ventures

Focus on high-value sectors: infrastructure, energy, agritech, telecommunications

Invest in relationships and risk management strategies

10. Conclusion

Myanmar offers significant but high-risk opportunities for UK exporters, particularly in infrastructure, energy, agribusiness, and ICT, requiring careful due diligence, local partnerships, and long-term commitment.