Myanmar’s quasi-civilian military junta is moving to expand storage and logistics infrastructure at the Thilawa Special Economic Zone near Yangon. The move is part of broader efforts to strengthen trade capacity and supply-chain resilience amid ongoing economic strain.

According to the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar,the Myanmar Agro Green Development Public Co Ltd (MAGDPL) plans to invest more than US$3.7 million in new storage facilities at Thilawa port capable of handling up to 25,000 tonnes of cargo.

The project at one of the country’s most important commercial gateways is intended to improve cargo management and support import and export operations.

Officials said the expanded facilities would help improve efficiency in handling agricultural goods and other commodities. It would also strengthen logistics services linked to domestic trade and overseas commerce.

Thilawa, located southeast of Yangon, is Myanmar’s largest special economic zone and a key hub for maritime trade. The port and the surrounding industrial area are central to the country’s import-dependent economy.

Its importance has grown as overland trade routes in some border regions have been closed or disrupted by ongoing armed conflict.

The investment comes as Myanmar continues to grapple with economic pressures, including currency volatility, high transport costs, and declining foreign investment following the 2021 military takeover.

The junta’s focus on logistics infrastructure reflects efforts to stabilise trade flows and maintain access to essential imports, including fuel, industrial materials, and consumer goods. The expansion also aligns with a current broader emphasis on domestic production, export promotion, and better supply-chain management.

State-run media has increasingly highlighted infrastructure and logistics projects as evidence of economic continuity despite the country’s political and security crisis.