THE bilateral border trade with Thailand is running normally despite the rising number of COVID-19 infection in Thailand, according to the statement of the Border Merchant Association.
“Although the volume of the bilateral border trade between Myanmar and Thailand has plummeted significantly because of the pandemic, the border trading is running as usual,” said an official from Myawady Border Merchant Association (MBMA).
Myanmar is carrying out border trade with Thailand, a neighbouring country, through seven border checkpoints -- Tachilek, Myawady, Kawthoung, Myeik, Hteekhee, Mawtaung and Maese respectively. Among them, Hteekhee performed the most extensive trade with a bilateral border trade value of US$2.8 million, followed by Myawady with $1.99 million.
“Currently, Thailand’s border authorities will not close the border area. If they close the border checkpoint, it can create difficulties for them,” said the official from MBMA.
At present, the border trade between the two countries includes foodstuffs and personal goods, he added.
The value of border trade with Thailand, which is Myanmar’s second-largest trade partner among the ASEAN states, has totalled $615 million between 1 October and 18 December, a decrease by over $302 million compared to the same period of last FY, according to the official statement of the Ministry of Commerce. The domestic transmission rate has been growing during the second wave of COVID-19 in Myanmar. Although Thailand accepts the goods exported from Kawthoung border post, the Ranong province administration team does not allow the people to go to the jetty. The cargo vessel from the Myanmar side usually is operating. Myanmar also imports foodstuffs and personal goods from Thailand.
Aye Maung (Translated by Hay Mar)
