Myanmar Reopens Myawaddy-Mae Sot Border

Thailand’s border trade with Myanmar resumed on 28 May 2026 after Myanmar authorities unexpectedly coordinated the reopening of the Myawaddy-Mae Sot trade checkpoint following more than 10 months of closure.

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Tak customs chief Yodphon Witchayakul said Myanmar customs officials in Myawaddy contacted Mae Sot customs officers at 2am to arrange the reopening of the second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge crossing at Ban Wang Takhian Tai in Tha Sai Luat subdistrict, Mae Sot district, Tak province.

The crossing officially reopened on 28 May 2026, allowing Thai goods trucks to begin moving across the Moei River once again. The reopening immediately brought renewed activity to the border area, with freight vehicles seen travelling through the checkpoint.

The bridge had been closed since August 2025, severely affecting cross-border trade between Thailand and Myanmar. According to Mr Yodphon, the prolonged closure caused border trade values to fall by more than 50%.

Mr Yodphon said he met Myanmar customs officials in Myawaddy on 28 May to discuss operational details. He noted that the checkpoint may not initially reopen at full capacity but expressed confidence that the move would help improve the border economy.

Thai exporters welcomed the reopening, saying it would improve economic activity and reduce transport costs for shipments travelling deeper into Myanmar.

The Mae Sot-Myawaddy crossing is one of the most important trade routes between Thailand and Myanmar, particularly for goods transported by road. Businesses on both sides of the border have faced major disruptions during the closure period.

Manager Online reported that authorities are expected to continue discussions on operational procedures and the phased expansion of border activities in the coming weeks as trade volumes gradually recover.

Picture courtesy of Manager Online

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Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 30 May 2026