The Myanmar Liquor Association (MLA) has called on the government to enact better control of the so-called “grey market”. Also, they urged the government to implement more transparent regulations of the liquor market. According to an article in the Myanmar Times, the MLA also clarified its position that it is not against the importation of liquor. However, they highlight the need for a level playing field for local companies. “We have not objected to any business that wishes to start up in Myanmar, provided they set up their processing or manufacturing facilities in our country,” said U Soe Lwin, President of MLA. “If they import the products it should be done so that the local manufacturers are not penalized”. The statement criticized the fact that the relaxation of import policies does not address the “grey market” of illegally imported goods. In its statement, the MLA called on the government to tackle the illegal market. It also lent its assistance to local manufacturers, so they can compete with international companies.