The Economy of Myanmar
Gas, Jade and the Extractive Economy
Gas exports remain a critical revenue source, while jade, gems and timber are traded partly through informal or conflict-linked channels.
Resources and conflict.
Gas
Offshore fields supply Thailand and China through pipelines.
Sanctions
Western measures target gas revenue linked to the military.
Jade
Mining in Kachin state is lucrative and often controlled by armed groups and elites.
Environment
Mining and logging cause damage.
A pipeline flow
Gas from Myanmar's Yadana field powers plants in Thailand.
Ignoring the role of resources in funding conflict
They matter.
Key takeaways
- Gas is a key revenue source.
- Jade is controlled by elites and armed groups.
- Sanctions target gas.
- Mining harms the environment.
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