The Economy of Myanmar
SLORC, Sanctions and Partial Opening
After 1988, the military junta allowed some private business and foreign investment in gas, but Western sanctions limited growth.
Limited liberalisation.
1988
A pro-democracy uprising was crushed, and a new junta took charge.
Reform
The junta permitted private firms and foreign investment, notably in gas.
Sanctions
The US and EU imposed sanctions over human rights.
Cronies
Military-linked business groups dominated key sectors.
A gas deal
A foreign firm invested in a pipeline to supply Thailand.
Assuming liberalisation means broad competition
Connections mattered.
Key takeaways
- A junta took power in 1988.
- Private business was allowed.
- Sanctions were imposed.
- Military-linked firms dominated.
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