Imported construction materials in Myanmar have risen by as much as 20 percent in the domestic market after the junta’s trade commission imposed restrictions on imports, according to local traders and contractors.
On August 13, the junta temporarily suspended imports of 35 categories of goods, including consumer products and construction materials, through border checkpoints. In addition, authorities closed the 2nd Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge on August 18, blocking another major trade route, which remains shut as of today.
As a result, the prices of key construction items such as glass, aluminum, cement, and tiles have surged by around 20 percent. If the restrictions continue, traders warn that shortages could worsen and prices may rise even further.
“Steel that used to cost 2.5 million kyats is now nearly 2.7 million. The problem isn’t just small price fluctuations, it’s that supply is running out. Business owners are selling only from what they had in storage. Since Myanmar only produces raw materials, we rely on imports for finished construction goods,” a Mon State contractor told IMNA.
Rising U.S. dollar exchange rates and overall inflation are further squeezing the construction sector. Contractors say they are having to renegotiate projects, with some warning that construction sites could be forced to halt.
The junta’s move to close the Myawaddy trade route, one of the largest overland trade channels with Thailand, was aimed at cutting off tax revenue for resistance forces. Authorities are reportedly considering shifting imports instead to the Kawthoung–Ranong maritime route, which remains under junta control.
According to traders, maritime imports through Ranong could lower transportation costs compared to overland routes.
“If they officially open the sea route, it won’t cause big problems here in Mon State. Import costs would be cheaper than Myawaddy, where six-wheel trucks cost around 8–9 million kyats per trip. By sea, it would be less. Right now, though, only some household goods are coming in that way,” a local importer said.
At an August 12 meeting of the State Security and Peace Commission, junta leaders claimed that illegal border trade had strengthened resistance forces and vowed to crack down. Officials have since seized trucks and goods, demanding fines of at least 80 million kyats per vehicle at the Southeastern Command headquarters before releasing them.
Currently, shortages are being reported across Mon State, with prices continuing to climb. Traders and consumers alike warn that while the spike may be temporary, everyday people could soon face prices far beyond their reach.
