DURING the period from 1 October to 21 June in the current fiscal year, the value of border trade increased by US$1.17 billion compared with the same period in the 2017-2018FY to reach $7.6 billion, according to data from the Commerce Ministry. Exports rose by $1.08 billion and imports by $93 million.
The value of exports was registered at $5.36 billion and imports at $2.27 billion. In the corresponding period of the previous fiscal, Myanmar’s border trade was pegged at $6.47 billion.
Myanmar mainly carries out border trade with neighboring China through Muse, Lwejel, Chinshwehaw, Kanpikete, and Kengtung checkpoints, and with Thailand through the Tachilek, Myawady, Kawthoung, Myeik, Hteekhee, Mawtaung, and Maese gates.
Myanmar conducts border trade with Bangladesh through Sittway and Maungtaw, and with India through the Tamu, Reed, and Thantlang border gates.
Among the 16 border trade camps, Muse recorded the highest trade value of $3.64 billion in the current FY, followed by Hteekhee at $1.86 billion, and Myawady at $683 million.
Myanmar exports agricultural, animal, fisheries, and forest products along with minerals, and it imports capital goods, intermediate goods, and consumer goods.
Currently, around 80 per cent of the country’s external trade is carried out via sea routes. — Zwe (Translated by Hay Mar)
