Myanmar’s Fish Exports Drop in Q1 2025-2026

Myanmar exported over 55,900 metric tonnes of fish valued at US$64.2 million in the first quarter of the 2025-2026 financial year, starting 1 April, according to the Department of Fisheries. Of this, 31,700 tonnes worth $44 million were shipped by sea, while 24,200 tonnes valued at $19.89 million were exported via border trade.

Exports fell by more than 5,450 tonnes, resulting in a $5.197 million decrease from the same period last year (61,300 tonnes, $69.4 million). Myanmar gained more than $421 million in the fiscal year 2024-2025 by exporting over 400,000 tonnes of fish. More than 20 fish species are exported to over 40 countries, including China, Thailand, Bangladesh, and Japan. The Department of Fisheries licenses more than 140 cold-storage fish processing factories annually.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

Over 21,000 E-Commerce Businesses Registered in Myanmar

The Trade Department under the Ministry of Commerce has granted e-commerce registration to 21,088 online business operators between 2 October 2023 and June 2025, following ground inspections.

As per Notification 11/2024, online sellers are required to register through www.ecomreg.gov.mm. Failure to do so may lead to legal action under the Essential Supplies and Services Law.

Mandatory registration was first announced in Notification 50/2023, effective from 2 October 2023. Businesses that registered by 31 December 2023 were exempt from fees for six months. From 1 January 2024, the registration is valid for two years, with fees set at K70,000 for companies and K30,000 for individuals. SMEs with certificates benefit from a reduced rate of K50,000.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

MSMEs in Quake Zones to Get CBM Loan Relief

The Central Bank of Myanmar (CBM) announced plans on 8 July to set up a State Reconstruction Fund and offer low-interest loans to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) affected by the 28 March Mandalay Earthquake.

The quake impacted businesses in regions including Nay Pyi Taw, Mandalay, Sagaing, Magway, Bago, and northeastern Shan State. To aid recovery, CBM is working with the Central Committee for MSME Development and other institutions to expand loan access and improve digital payment systems.

Participating banks, including Myanmar Economic Bank and 18 private lenders, are disbursing affordable MSME loans under various programmes. CBM is also pushing for dedicated MSME departments in banks and enhancing digital transactions through platforms like CBM-NET and MMQR, launched in February 2025, to ensure faster and secure payments.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

CBM Steps Up Currency Market Interventions to Stabilize Kyat

The Central Bank of Myanmar (CBM) has intensified its foreign exchange interventions in July 2025 to stabilize the kyat and support essential imports. On 8 July, CBM sold US$30 million to fuel oil importers and $885,100 to edible oil companies. On 7 July, it sold $1.8 million and 1.3 million yuan, followed by $1.87 million to edible oil companies and $912,150 to commodities importers. On 4 July, CBM injected $1.75 million and $481,540, alongside $578,542 and 900,000 yuan into the market. On 3 July, it sold $678,000, 1.24 million yuan, and 2.94 million baht, and over $3.346 million to edible oil companies. On 2 July, it announced a sale of 10 million yuan, and injected over $1.593 million. On 1 July, CBM pumped $33 million into the fuel sector and sold $1.15 million to edible oil companies. In June 2025, CBM sold $8.4 million, 13.9 million baht, 5.2 million yuan, and injected $14.9 million from CMP enterprises.

These measures aim to curb exchange rate volatility and currency devaluation. As of 15 March 2024, CBM is coordinating with law enforcement to tackle market manipulation. Since 5 December 2023, private banks have been permitted to trade currencies online at market rates.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar (10.7.25)

Gold and Dollar Advance as Fuel Prices Recede

On July 10, the buying rate stood at Ks 4,390 per USD, while the selling rate reached Ks 4,470 per USD. This growing difference reflects ongoing stresses on the local currency due to limited dollar availability and strong demand from importers and remittance markets.

Gold prices increased notably, with the selling price reaching Ks 7,840,000 per kyattha on July 10, while the buying price stood at Ks 7,760,000 per kyattha. This upward movement reflects sustained local demand and influences from global gold market trends.

On the other hand, fuel prices declined slightly, offering mild relief for consumers. As of July 10: Octane 92 dropped to Ks 3,015 per litre, down from Ks 3,140 the previous week. Octane 95 fell to Ks 3,075, compared to Ks 3,210 last week. Diesel prices eased to Ks 2,635 per litre, and Premium diesel declined to Ks 3,265, marking a decrease of Ks 95 to Ks 135 across the board.

Trump’s Tariff List Includes Myanmar in 14-Nation Crackdown

Myanmar faces a potential 40% U.S. tariff under President Donald Trump’s latest trade plan, part of a broader strategy targeting 14 countries. The announcement follows the expiration of a 90-day pause on aggressive import taxes. While higher tariffs were set for 9 July, Trump extended the timeline to 1 August, calling it “firm, but not 100% firm.” The move threatens Myanmar’s already fragile export sector as the country grapples with economic and political challenges. Though Trump indicated flexibility depending on diplomatic ties, analysts see the tariffs as a negotiating tool, not a finalized decision — leaving Myanmar watching closely.

Source: BBC

Fuel Oil Prices Drop Slightly in Myanmar

Fuel oil prices in Myanmar slightly declined this week ending 10 July. Octane 92 is priced at K3,015 per litre, down from K3,140 the previous week, while Octane 95 fell to K3,075 from K3,210. Diesel dropped to K2,635 and premium diesel to K3,265, showing a K95–K135 decrease.

Prices are based on the Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) index, with 90% of fuel imported. The Petroleum Products Regulatory Department sets daily reference prices and monitors retailers. Overcharging fuel stations will face consequences under the 2017 Petroleum Law. While some countries impose higher taxes, Malaysia’s subsidized fuel remains about 60% cheaper. Authorities aim to maintain fair prices amid global market changes.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar