A Belgian satellite communications provider has become the first company to cut ties with a Myanmar partner, reported VOA News. The activity occurred after following the UN’s call for a boycott of military-affiliated businesses. The firm, Newtech, announced that it would officially cease all activities with Mytel, a company partially owned by the military.
The UN Fact-Finding Mission report demands to sever all ties to businesses tied to military officers. The full economic impact of the UN statement remains to be seen, but Newtech’s announcement is a blow against one of Myanmar’s most important industries, as it strives to extend cellular coverage to 95% of its population. Last year, Mytel became the country’s fourth licensed cellular carrier, assisted by a Newtech mobile back-haul network.
Although the Myanmar government has “categorically rejected” the UN’s claims, Newtech remains unconvinced. “We will never knowingly sell to any organization or company linked to the [military’s] campaign of violence… and the atrocities committed against the Rohingya,” the company said in a statement.