Myanmar eyes revival of border trade with Bangladesh

Myanmar has signalled its interest in resuming trade with Bangladesh after more than a year of disruption caused by insurgent activity along the frontier. Ambassador Kyaw Soe Moe made the announcement during talks with Commerce Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir in Dhaka on Sunday, according to a statement from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Commerce.

“Businessmen and people of both countries will benefit if the long‑suspended border trade is resumed,” the ambassador said, adding that a limited or temporary restart could be considered to ease the process.

Trade between the two neighbours was effectively shut down in April 2025, when Myanmar’s junta halted border commerce citing extortion demands from the Arakan Army. The insurgent group now controls a 270‑kilometre stretch of Rakhine State’s border and navigation on the Naf River, leaving hundreds of importers and exporters facing heavy losses.

Although a timber shipment from Myanmar reached Teknaf Land Port in May, raising hopes of renewed activity, the wider security crisis has kept trade flows restricted. Currently, only small volumes of timber are entering Bangladesh from Rakhine, while consumer goods such as drinks and biscuits are being exported in the opposite direction.

During the Dhaka meeting, both sides discussed expanding bilateral trade, strengthening shipping links, importing LNG and boosting investment opportunities. Minister Muktadir stressed Bangladesh’s commitment to deepening ties with neighbours through “mutual respect, trust and economic cooperation”.

The talks also touched on sensitive issues, including the repatriation of Rohingya refugees. The ambassador said Myanmar is vetting lists provided by Bangladesh and will move forward once conditions allow. Dhaka, meanwhile, urged the creation of a safe environment for speedy and dignified returns.

Officials agreed to hold regular joint committee meetings, with the next session proposed in Bangladesh. Plans to establish direct maritime communication and finalise a shipping agreement were also discussed.

For both countries, the prospect of reviving border trade offers economic relief and a chance to rebuild strained relations. Yet with insurgents still holding sway along the frontier, any breakthrough will depend on improved security as much as political will.

-2026-08-03