Returnees bring COVID-19 to Kayin, Tanintharyi

The first cases of COVD-19 have been confirmed in Kayin State and Tanintharyi Region, apparently brought back by returning migrant workers. Of the five confirmed cases in these areas, it seems two contracted the disease in Thailand and three in Malay

Government reduces COVID-19 restrictions

This week, the Ministry of Health and Sports allowed restaurants throughout the country to reopen as it continues to gradually reduce COVID-19 restrictions. Restaurants in areas with no confirmed COVID-19 cases may open to dine-in customers, provided

Foreign COVID-19 aid flows

Several countries have pledged loans and aid to support Myanmar’s pandemic-stricken economy as well as its short term healthcare needs. This week, the World Bank announced a new Country Partnership Framework that aims to help Myanmar recover fr

Govt releases list of essential businesses

The Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population has identified a list of businesses that must be allowed to stay open during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The list (included at the end of this article) includes fire fighting services; hospitals,

Sweeping economic stimulus plan unveiled

The Ministry of Planning, Finance and Industry has released a comprehensive COVID-19 stimulus plan that will inject billions of dollars into the Myanmar economy. In an official report, State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi said the plan will both help th

Visa and flight ban extended to May 15

The government has extended a blanket moratorium on flights and new visas until May 15. The suspensions, originally announced by the Central Committee for COVID-19 Prevention, Control and Treatment, were set to end on April 30. A growing number of ne