Bangkok: The Department of Foreign Trade is actively engaging with the Myanmar Embassy to discuss strategies aimed at supporting Thai exporters amidst the tightening of import licensing regulations in Myawaddy. The discussions focus on identifying alternative routes to mitigate the impacts on trade.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Arada Fueangthong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, led a delegation to meet with Mr. Zaw Zaw Soe, Ambassador of Myanmar to Thailand. The meeting, held at the Myanmar Embassy, was centered on facilitating the use of Myanmar import licenses to alleviate the constraints posed by Myanmar's stringent import license control measures. These measures have particularly affected Thai exporters at the Myawaddy-Mae Sot border checkpoint.
The Myanmar representatives recognized the concerns raised by Thailand regarding the enforcement of import licenses, particularly at the Myawaddy border crossing area adjacent to the 2nd Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Mae Sot District, Tak Province. This area serves as a crucial export route for Thai goods.
Myanmar explained that the import controls are part of a gradual policy to manage domestic trade, yet emphasized its willingness to engage in dialogue to find a balanced resolution that benefits both nations.
In response to Thailand's concerns, Myanmar suggested alternative export routes and expressed readiness to consider a proposal to review Export Earnings criteria, which will be discussed with the government.
Ms. Arada further mentioned that the Thai side intends to invite the Myanmar Minister of Commerce for an official visit to Thailand. This visit aims to address policy issues related to trade facilitation and to explore avenues for expanding long-term trade cooperation, leveraging the strong bilateral relations between the two countries.