Myanmar

Abstract

Emerging from decades of economic and political isolation, Myanmar has strong potential for broad economic expansion. The country possesses abundant natural resources, a strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, a young population, and a sizable market with wide-ranging investment opportunities. Successful national elections, held in November 2015, and a peaceful transition to a new government in April 2016 represented important milestones in Myanmar’s transition. The country, however, needs to achieve and maintain stability, both on the macroeconomic front and in terms of peace and reconciliation. It needs to address substantive infrastructure and human resources deficits, which constrain social and economic development. Myanmar also needs to sustain its reform momentum toward good governance, effective public sector management, and a conducive business environment.