Bangkok: The reopening of the Myawaddy border crossing is positively impacting Thai-Myanmar trade, although it remains subject to import license requirements.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of International Trade has indicated that the Myawaddy border crossing in Myanmar, after being closed for more than nine months, is a positive factor for Thai-Myanmar border trade and Thai exports, particularly through the Mae Sot border crossing in Tak province. However, the recovery hinges on Myanmar's import license regulations and foreign exchange management system, which continue to be critical elements influencing the trade direction in the second half of 2026.
Ms. Arada Fuangthong, Director-General of the Department of International Trade, disclosed that Myanmar reopened the Myawaddy border crossing, located opposite the Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge No. 2 in Mae Sot District, Tak Province, on May 28, 2026. It had been unilaterally closed since August 18, 2025. This reopening is a significant development for border trade between the two countries, as it serves as a major trade gateway facilitating the transport of goods to Myanmar's primary economic regions.
The border reopening is expected to enhance the export of goods by Thai businesses, including consumer goods, construction materials, electrical appliances, vehicles, and industrial products that are in demand in Myanmar. Additionally, it is anticipated to improve logistics efficiency and reduce transportation costs compared to the period when the border crossing was closed.
However, despite the easing of transportation restrictions, Myanmar's imports remain governed by an import license system tied to export earnings and foreign exchange management. Importers must ensure they have sufficient funds from export earnings or match with a buyer with adequate funds to qualify for import approval, leading to longer approval processes. Some goods even require case-specific approval.
While the transportation scenario shows improvement, import regulations, foreign exchange management systems, and export earnings matching measures remain significant factors influencing the purchasing power and import decisions of Myanmar's private sector. These elements will shape the direction of Thai-Myanmar border trade in the latter half of this year.
In general, the value of Thai-Myanmar border trade, including trade through the Mae Sot customs checkpoint, declined during January-April 2026 compared to the same period last year. This decline reflects the impact of the border situation and Myanmar's import control measures. Nevertheless, the reopening of the Myawaddy checkpoint is expected to aid the trade recovery, particularly for food, beverages, medicines, consumer goods, construction materials, fuel, and essential industrial goods necessary for daily life and production in Myanmar.
The Director-General of the Department of International Trade affirmed that the department will continue to facilitate trade between Thailand and Myanmar. The department plans to address the import obstacles at the upcoming Thai-Myanmar Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting later this year. The objective is to explore ways to ease restrictions and enhance system flexibility, making import approvals more efficient.
Furthermore, the Department will closely observe the reopening of the Myawaddy border crossing, trade measures, and Myanmar's foreign exchange policy. It will also evaluate the impact of the Ministry of Defence's import and export control measures along the border to prevent and suppress scam businesses, coordinating with relevant agencies to alleviate obstacles for Thai exporters and foster sustainable growth in Thai-Myanmar border trade.