Myanmar’s exports of jade from mines in Kachin State remain weak due to the continued closure of most border crossings with China, according to traders.
Nearly eight months after the Brotherhood Alliance launched its Operation 1027 offensive in October of last year, Myanmar’s lucrative gems trade has largely come to a standstill, costing merchants—and the regime—millions of dollars in lost revenue.
According to official figures, sales fell to US$271 million in the 2023-24 fiscal year, down by $60 million compared with the year before. Since the start of the current fiscal year in April, the situation has only gotten worse, say traders.
“Not only are the roads blocked, but they’re also damaged and unusable, especially now that the rainy season has started,” said Myint Han, chair of the Myanmar Gems & Jewellery Entrepreneurs Association.
Even in Mandalay, business has been slow due to. . .
Subscribe for full access to
Get unlimited access to high-quality reporting from the frontlines and support independent journalism.
Already a subscriber? Log in
