Last updated: 14 Feb 2013
Travel
Airports
Myanmar is accessible by a variety of international airline carriers. Direct flights are available from a growing number of Asian cities, including Bangkok (a 90 minute flight), Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hanoi and Chang Mai. At the time of publication, Yangon and Mandalay are Myanmar’s principal international airports, although Nay Pyi Taw airport has some limited international connections (mainly charter flights).
Ground transport
Please refer to the local travel and air safety sections of DFAT’s travel advice for Myanmar on Smartraveller for information about internal travel.
Hotels
A variety of accommodation options are available in Yangon and in other major cities like Mandalay. Visitors should be aware that due to sharply increasing demand for accommodation, the price of accommodation in Myanmar has increased significantly and is now on par with major capital cities in Australia and Asia.
Visitors should be aware that credit card use is very limited in Myanmar. Visitors are advised to check with their hotel whether credit cards will be accepted, otherwise cash (typically US dollars) is required to cover accommodation costs. Alternatively, accommodation can be arranged and prepaid through an Australia-based travel agent.
Communications
Mobile phones
At the time of publication, no Australian mobile network has an international roaming agreement for Myanmar. With a very limited number of exceptions, international mobile phones will generally not work in Yangon. Visitors can purchase a pre-paid SIM with a validity of one month upon arrival at the airport or from licensed sellers for US$20. The cost of purchasing a permanent SIM card in Myanmar is around US$250 and new handsets cost around US$100. There is also the option at the airport of hiring a SIM card with international roaming options through local telecom company Yatanarpon Teleport.
Overall, communications infrastructure in Myanmar is problematic and remains a major impediment to conducting international business. Landlines are unreliable, especially outside of the major cities, and prices for international calls are some of the highest in the world. If available, the use of a satellite phone can be an alternative to relying on Myanmar’s communication infrastructure.
Internet services
Internet and limited Wi-Fi services are available in some hotels and coffee shops. While the range and quality of Internet access is improving, connectivity and speed is still inconsistent particularly during peak usage times. Communications are controlled by the government and internet services are managed by major state-owned enterprises including Myanmar Post and Telecom (MPT), Myanmar Teleport, and Yatanarpon Teleport. There are two private ISP providers but their market penetration remains small. Yangon’s international airport has free and reasonably reliable public internet access.
Top Business Risks
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is a voluntary mechanism which promotes and supports improved governance in resource-rich countries through the full publication and verification of company payments and government revenues from oil, gas, and mining.
The EITI is supported by governments, industry, and non-government organisations around the world. The Australian Government supports the EITI and encourages Australian companies operating internationally to comply with its recommendations.