Resources for Investors

Government Institutions and Agencies

Myanmar Investment Commission (MIC)

• The MIC is the primary body overseeing investments in Myanmar.

• Services include investment permit issuance, tax incentive approvals, and guidance on investment regulations.

• Website: www.dica.gov.mm

Directorate of Investment and Company Administration (DICA)

• DICA facilitates company registration, compliance, and investment-related queries.

• It manages the Myanmar Companies Online (MyCO) portal for online company registration.

• Website: www.dica.gov.mm

Special Economic Zone Management Committees

• SEZ committees manage investment operations within Special Economic Zones (Thilawa, Dawei, Kyaukphyu).

• They provide streamlined administrative processes, tax benefits, and infrastructure support.

Legal and Regulatory Frameworks

Myanmar Investment Law (MIL)

• The MIL provides the legal foundation for both domestic and foreign investments.

• It outlines investor rights, incentives, and responsibilities.

Myanmar Companies Law (2017)

• This law governs company incorporation, foreign ownership limits, and operational requirements.

• Accessible on the DICA website.

Special Economic Zone Law (2014)

• The SEZ Law provides incentives and regulatory guidelines for businesses in SEZs.

Financial Institutions and Support

Banks

• Local and international banks offer corporate banking, trade financing, and foreign currency accounts. Key banks include:

  • Kanbawza Bank (KBZ)

  • AYA Bank

  • Yoma Bank

  • Myanmar Foreign Trade Bank (MFTB)

Investment Funds

• Development finance institutions and private equity firms provide funding opportunities, especially for SMEs and infrastructure projects. Examples include the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and IFC.

Export/Import Financing

• The Ministry of Commerce and local banks offer export/import licenses and financing support.

Online Portals and Tools

Myanmar Companies Online (MyCO)

• MyCO is an online platform for company registration, annual returns, and compliance filings.

• Accessible at: myco.dica.gov.mm

Myanmar Trade Portal

• This portal provides information on trade regulations, tariffs, and customs procedures.

• Accessible at: www.myanmartradeportal.gov.mm

Investment Guides

• DICA and MIC publish sector-specific investment guides, covering opportunities, legal frameworks, and market conditions.

Professional Services

Legal and Tax Advisory Firms

• Local and international firms offer specialized services in legal compliance, tax planning, and regulatory navigation.

  • Examples: VDB Loi, Baker McKenzie, Rajah & Tann.

Accounting and Auditing Firms

• Firms like PwC, Deloitte, and EY provide financial planning, tax filing, and audit services.

Consulting Firms

• Business consultants assist with market entry strategies, feasibility studies, and risk assessments.

Industry Associations and Chambers of Commerce

Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI)

• The UMFCCI serves as a platform for businesses to network, collaborate, and address regulatory issues.

• Website: www.umfcci.org.mm

Foreign Chambers of Commerce

• These organizations provide resources and networking opportunities for foreign investors:

  • Myanmar-China Chamber of Commerce.

  • American Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar.

  • European Chamber of Commerce in Myanmar.

Sector-Specific Associations

• Associations like the Myanmar Construction Entrepreneurs Federation (MCEF) and Myanmar Rice Federation (MRF) offer industry-specific resources and guidance.

Training and Workforce Development

Vocational Training Centers

• Government and private institutions offer workforce training tailored to industry needs.

Educational Partnerships

• Collaborations with international educational institutions support skills development and training.

Employment Agencies

• Professional staffing firms help investors recruit skilled workers.

Trade and Investment Fairs

Investment Summits

• Events such as the Myanmar Investment Summit provide networking opportunities and insights into investment opportunities.

Sectoral Expos

• Industry-specific expos, such as the Myanmar International Construction Expo or the Myanmar AgriTech Expo, offer opportunities to connect with local partners and suppliers.

Publications and Reports

Economic Surveys

• Reports by the World Bank, ADB, and other organizations provide economic forecasts and sectoral analysis.

Market Research Reports

• Private firms and industry groups publish market research to help investors understand local conditions.

Government Publications

• Annual reports and policy briefs from the Ministry of Planning and Finance offer insights into fiscal policies and national priorities.

Networking and Support Groups

Entrepreneurial Networks

• Myanmar’s entrepreneurial community offers informal mentorship and partnerships for new businesses.

Business Incubators

• Organizations like Phandeeyar provide incubation, funding, and networking support for startups.

International Organizations and Development Agencies

United Nations (UNDP, UNIDO)

• UN programs support sustainable development and capacity building for investors in priority sectors.

Asian Development Bank (ADB)

• The ADB provides funding, technical assistance, and policy advice for infrastructure and development projects.

World Bank Group (IFC)

• The International Finance Corporation (IFC) supports private sector investments through funding and advisory services.

Conclusion

Myanmar offers a broad spectrum of resources to support investors, from regulatory guidance to financial and technical assistance. Leveraging these resources effectively can help investors navigate Myanmar’s unique business environment and maximize their success.