COVID halts Kachin jade mining
The government has suspended large-scale jade mining operations in Kachin state, fearing the spread of COVID-19 among workers, especially informal scavengers. Jade mining in the state has already been on hold since a deadly landslide in July in Hpaka
Domestic flights resume
The Ministry of Health and Sports has allowed domestic flights to resume on December 16th with new health and safety requirements. In addition to face masks, social distancing and spaced seating, passengers are required to pay for a rapid diagnostic
Mining firms forced to disclose contracts
Starting next year, all companies in the extractives sector, both private and state-owned, will be forced to publicly disclose their contracts. Affected industries range from timber logging, to oil and gas, to jade and gemstones. The new rule is mean
India says China is aiding Myanmar rebels
Indian officials have accused China of using Myanmar rebel groups to support proxy wars on its borders. Speaking to press, the officials (who remained anonymous) claimed China was working with the United Wa State Army and the Arakan Army to funnel we
COVID update: case count hits 100K, Yangon mayor infected
This week, Myanmar’s confirmed COVID-19 cases passed 100,000, with new cases hovering between 1000 and 1500 per day. Recent outbreaks include more than 80 cases among monks in a Mandalay monastery, as well as a surge in Myawaddy, whose case cou
