What Uncertainty in Myanmar Means for Southeast Asia’s Investment Outlook – Asia Forward Episode 2

Mizzima

In Episode 2 of Asia Forward, host Ei Thant Sin speaks with Ambassador Susan Stevenson, former Charge d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Yangon from 2023-2026, about the realities of doing business in Myanmar amid political instability, sanctions, and ongoing conflict.

Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar’s economy has been shaped by currency controls, import restrictions, U.S. sanctions on military-linked entities and financial blacklisting. Yet despite the conflict and reputational risks, parts of the private sector continue operating, and businesses on the ground show notable resilience.

This episode explores the real business climate in Myanmar in 2026 and what U.S. companies need to consider before entering, staying in or exiting the market.

The conversation dives deep into political risk, sanctions compliance, supply chain shifts in Southeast Asia, rare earth minerals and critical resources, the rise of the shadow economy, labor shortages, digital payments, and Myanmar’s role within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

As Southeast Asia positions itself as a supply-chain alternative beyond China, where does Myanmar fit, if at all?

This conversation offers essential context for investors, policymakers, and business leaders navigating emerging market risk.

Ei Thant Sin: