WT/TPR/M/293  
 
31 March 2014  
(00-0000)  Page: 1/40  
Trade Policy Review Body 
11 and 13 March 2014    
 
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW 
MYANMAR  
DRAFT MINUTES OF THE MEETING 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Joakim Reiter 
CONTENTS 
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ....................................................... 2  
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE RE PRESENTATIVE OF MYANMAR  .................................. 4  
3  STATEMENT BY TH E DISCUSSANT .............................................................................. 10  
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS ........................................................................................ 13  
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MYANMAR AND ADDITIONAL 
COMMENTS ..................................................................................................................... 33  
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ......................................................... 38  
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Myanmar are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/293/Add.1 and will be available 
online at http://www.wto.org/englis h/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
1.1.  First of all, the Chairperson attended to on e outstanding matter that he was prevented to 
deal with the week before, and that was to pay trib ute to the recently retired director of the Trade 
Polices Review Division, Mr. Richard Eglin. On behalf of all Members, the Chairperson sincerely 
thanked Richard for his contribution which had been outstanding to the WTO, to Members and to 
the trading system. Members would surely miss him in this Body where he had left a remarkable legacy.  
1.2.  The first Trade Policy Review of Malaysia was held on 3 and 5 March 2014. The Chairperson 
H.E. Mr Joakim Reiter (Sweden) welcomed the delegation of Malaysia headed by Dr. Pwint San, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Commerce; the rest of the delegation; other colleagues from the mission in Geneva; and the discussant, H.E. Mr. Hamish McCormick (Australia). 
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Tr ade Policy Reviews and the main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by Myanmar was contained in document WT/TPR/G/293 and that of the WT O Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/293. 
1.4.  Myanmar adopted the alternative timeframe for it s TPRB meeting. Questions by the following 
delegations had been submitted in writing at least four weeks in advance and had been transmitted to the delegation of Myanmar: Honduras; Thailand on behalf of ASEAN; Thailand, 
Canada; Singapore; the United States; Hong Kong, China; New Zealand; Chinese Taipei; Japan; 
EU; Australia; the Republic of Korea; and Argent ina. The following delegations submitted written 
questions after the four week dead line: China and the Philippines. 
1.5.  First and foremost, the Chairperson recalled to delegations three overarching points for the 
review: first, this was the first trade policy revi ew for Myanmar, which was an original Member of 
the WTO. On behalf of the TPRB, the Chairperson wholeheartedly welcomed Myanmar's participation in the TPRM. Second, this review took place at a historically significant phase of 
Myanmar's economic development: before 2011, for many years, Myanmar was shielded off from 
global markets. But in 2011, following political reforms and the establishment of a newly elected Government, significant reforms had taken place to re-integrate Myanmar in the global economy. 
All Members welcomed the steps Myanmar had taken in the past two years to open up. The 
Chairperson was sure that Members would wish to use this opportunity to know more in detail Myanmar's trade and related policies and measures . Third, Myanmar was an LDC. Its ambitious 
reform plans were resource-intensive, yet - like other LDCs - Myanmar lacked much of the 
resources needed. For this reason, Myanmar was taki ng this opportunity to engage with potential 
development partners and the Secretariat report identified key areas for technical assistance.  
1.6.  Among the many positive reform steps taken, as indicated in the Secretariat report, were: 
macroeconomic stabilization, including the replacemen t of the overvalued official foreign exchange 
peg with a "managed floating" exchange rate re gime; a new Foreign Investment Law, which was 
promulgated in 2012, generally allowed FDI except in activities that were restricted or prohibited; 
and Myanmar also eliminated import and export li censing requirements on a number of tariff lines 
in 2013, as well as began gradually changing its regime from non-automatic to automatic licenses. Members wished to learn more about the details of these liberalization measures and whether it had plans for further liberalization.  
1.7.  However, which was also clear from the Secretariat report and recognized in Myanmar's own 
plans for further reforms, the country still had a long way to go. While it had important growth potential, Myanmar's economy still suffered from, inter alia , low agricultural productivity, ample 
restrictions on services, limitations on who can trade and under what conditions, many 
unprofitable state owned enterprises, including po ssibly state trading enterprises. More generally, 
there seemed to be important transparency gaps, with many notifications outstanding, which could 
hamper predictability. In addition, while Myanma r had low average applied rates, its bound rates 
were significantly higher and the vast majority of  tariffs remained unbound. Also, it would appear 
that for some tariff lines applied MFN tariff exceeded the corresponding bound rates, and commercial taxes were exempt for some items if they were produced domestically. Some Members 
asked for clarifications on issues such as these related to tariffs and other taxes.   WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  1.8.  On regional agreements, Myanmar had been involved in ASEAN, and its trade with other 
ASEAN members accounted for about half of its tota l trade. Members were interested to know the 
importance of ASEAN in Myanmar's developm ent, including how ASEAN membership had 
contributed to its economic reform.  
1.9.  The Chairperson also mentioned Myanmar's tech nical assistance needs, highlighted in a 
separate annex in the Secretariat report.  
1.10.  These key issues, as well as other matters evoked in the advance questions, were potential 
subjects for debate. The Chairperson could also imagine that recent changes to the trade regime 
and sectoral issues would be elaborated upon in more detail in the introductory statements by Myanmar and the discussant. 
1.11.  The Chairperson noted that a podcast would be made of this TPRB meeting. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF MYANMAR (DR. PWINT SAN) 
2.1.  My delegation is delighted to be here with you today for the first Trade Policy Review of 
Myanmar. May I begin by thanking you, Chairman, and the Secretariat, for your kind attention to all the arrangements for this meeting. My dele gation very much appreciates the Secretariat's 
diligence in preparing its comprehensive report on trade and economic developments in Myanmar 
since the establishment of a civilian Government and the subsequent election of U Thein Sein as President three years ago. The Secretariat's report provides an excellent basis for this meeting. 
May I also thank H.E. Mr Hamish McCormick for kind ly agreeing to assume the role of Discussant. I 
look forward to hearing his observations and insights.  
2.2.  In order to enhance transparency and try to make  up for Myanmar's lack of notifications, we 
have opted for the alternative timelines prescribed  in the Fourth Appraisal of the TPR Mechanism 
for the submission of advance written questions and answers. Accordingly, my delegation has 
provided written answers to nearly all Members' 197 questions one week prior to this meeting, 
including those received after the deadline. I hope  that these answers together with the reports 
prepared by the Secretariat and the Government have greatly improved Members' understanding 
of Myanmar's trade and trade-related policies, es pecially their nature, their objectives, and the 
measures used to achieve these objectives. 
2.3.  As a founding Member of the WTO (and GATT), Myanmar welcomes its first Trade Policy 
Review, which is undertaken in the spirit of tr ansparency, as embodied in the TPR Mechanism. 
Indeed, improved transparency, and thus more open Government, is one of the hallmarks of recent reforms. By contributing to Member's understanding of Myanmar's trade policies and 
measures, this review provides the Government of Myanmar with the opportunity to evaluate 
these trade policies and measures through the eyes  of all WTO Members, with a view to improving 
Myanmar's trade policy regime, in accordance with the WTO's underlying principles. At the same 
time, preparations for this first review have served as a catalyst for inter-ministerial cooperation 
which will hopefully improve the coherence of trade and trade-related policies in the future. 
2.4.  Myanmar strongly supports the multilateral trad ing system. In formulating and implementing 
its trade policies, the Government seeks to adhere to the WTO's fundamental principles of 
non-discrimination, predictability and, more importantly, transparency, which is the main focus of this trade policy review. Although Myanmar, a least-developed country, currently lacks the 
capacity to fulfil its obligation to notify Members fully and promptly of all changes in those trade 
policies subject to WTO agreements, it is making every effort to do so, thanks to generous 
technical assistance (TA). TA provided by the WTO and its Members as well as other international organizations, including the ADB, IMF, ITC, OECD, UNCTAD and World Bank, is also, among other 
things, enabling Myanmar to bring its trade policies and measures into line with its WTO 
obligations. Myanmar relies on Members' continued support in meeting these obligations. 
2.5.  Given its lack of institutional capacity and related technical expertise in WTO matters, the 
Government of Myanmar appreciates the extremel y useful role this first TPR has played in 
identifying, and thereby drawing Members' attentio n to Myanmar's TA needs and priorities in this 
regard. It is also extremely grateful to the ADB for assisting the Government of Myanmar with its preparations for this Review. TA and capacity building is essential if Myanmar is to be able to 
undertake the wide-ranging reforms that are necessary to meet the many formidable challenges it 
faces, especially with regard to trade and trade-related policies. 
2.6.  Furthermore, this review provides the Governme nt of Myanmar with the opportunity to bring 
Members' attention to the progress it has made during the past three years in transforming 
Myanmar from a centrally-planned into a market-oriented and more open economy at the crossroads to Asia, and re-integrating it into the global economy, after five decades of isolation 
and consequent stagnation. This review also highlights the formidable challenges that Myanmar 
faces in advancing its economic and social development and the key roles of trade and related policies in meeting these challenges. Indeed, liberalization of trade and foreign investment is an integral part of Myanmar's broad economic reform strategy.  
2.7.  Accordingly, Myanmar is now looking increasingly outward. An open global trading system, 
including access to export markets and inward flows of FDI, is essential for Myanmar's economic development and thus poverty reduction. At the same time, however, as a consequence of its WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  membership of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the latter's deepening 
economic relationship with China, Japan, Korea,  India, Australia and New Zealand, Myanmar is 
becoming more integrated economically with these regional trading partners. The opportunities for freer trade created by the multilateral tradin g system and these regional trade agreements, 
especially the ASEAN, are also providing an impetus for far-reaching unilateral market-driven 
reforms, which will enable Myanmar to take advantage of these opportunities so as to achieve sustained growth and diversify its economy, whic h is rich in natural resources, but largely 
under-developed. 
2.8.  Myanmar is undergoing a great opening, taking its rightful place in the heart of Asia, the 
most dynamic and innovative hub of the global economy. While it has come a long way in a short period, Myanmar's economy is still fragile and needs stronger institutional underpinning. 
Nonetheless, the groundwork has been laid. As a consequence of key macroeconomic reforms 
implemented with the assistance of the IMF, nota bly the adoption of a managed floating exchange 
rate, establishment of a functional foreign exch ange market, removal of exchange restrictions, 
creation of an autonomous central bank, and the beginning of the process of liberalizing bank 
lending, Myanmar has already achieved the macroeconomic stability that forms the basis for its economic take-off. 
2.9.  As consequence, since the onset of its wide-ranging political, social and economic reforms, 
Myanmar's economic performance has considerably  improved. For example, real GDP growth has 
accelerated from 5.1% in fiscal year (FY) 2009/10 (year ending March) to an estimated 6.4% in FY 2012/13 and 6.8% in FY 2013/14. Moreover, wh ereas inward FDI amounted US$1.4 billion in 
FY 2012/13, during the first 11 months of FY 2013/14 (beginning on 1 April), it more than doubled 
to reach US$3.6 billion, of which roughly half flowed into manufacturing and 20% into the 
telecommunications sector. 
2.10.  Notwithstanding this improved economic performance, Myanmar remains a least-developed 
country, with per capita GDP of only around US$900. Nonetheless, with abundant natural resources, a young labour force, and its strategic position bordering the fastest growing markets in 
the world with more than two billion people, Myanmar's growth potential is enormous, provided it 
continues its transition along the path to a more  open market-oriented economy, unfettered by the 
shackles of excessive state control. In the abse nce of well-developed domestic markets, however, 
particularly a capital market, Myanmar is susceptible to "market failure" during this transition.  
Hence, it is necessary for the Government of Myanmar to intervene in certain instances where 
markets may fail to reflect adequately social costs and benefits. 
2.11.  Let me now highlight some of the main steps that Myanmar has taken to build on its 
macroeconomic reforms and thereby achieve sustained, strong, and inclusive growth accompanied 
by poverty reduction. I shall also bring to your attention some significant developments since the reports of the Secretariat and the Government of Myanmar were finalized in November. I shall 
focus on those related directly to trade and FDI.   
2.12.  Perhaps the single most important economic  reform has been the replacement of the 
overvalued official foreign exchange rate peg with  a "managed float" in April 2012 together with 
the establishment of a functional foreign exch ange market and removal of foreign exchange 
restrictions. Reform of the foreign exchange re gime was a major step in removing not only 
impediments to the purchase and sale of foreign exchange for the import and export of goods and 
services, but also obstacles to foreign direct investment (FDI) in Myanmar.  
2.13.  Undoubtedly, inward FDI has a key role to play, not only re-integrating Myanmar into the 
world economy, but also in developing and di versifying Myanmar's economy from one based 
largely on agriculture and natural resources into one oriented more towards manufacturing and 
services. Therefore, attracting FDI is a primar y objective of Government policy. Accordingly, 
among the other major reforms is the new, much more liberal Foreign Investment Law (FIL), promulgated in November 2012. The new FIL is aimed at ensuring a stable and predictable environment for foreign investment. For example, one of its main features is a "negative list" 
approach that allows foreign investment in all activities except those that are listed as prohibited 
or restricted. By contrast, the previous law involved a "positive list" approach, whereby foreign investment was allowed only in specified sectors. The new FIL together with the new Myanmar 
Citizens' Investment Law (MCIL) adopted on 29 July 2013 envisage not only a wider range of 
activities where foreign investment can involv e 100% equity ownership, but also lower and WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  non-discriminatory minimum capital requirements, tax incentives (especially tax holidays), longer 
leasing of real estate as well as vigorous standards for environmental and social protection.   
2.14.  Although the new FIL is a considerable improvement on the previous 1988 law, given the 
haste with which it was drafted, owing to its urgency and especially the absence of technical 
assistance, several flaws have become apparent. In particular, some of the core standards, such 
as MFN and national treatment, expropriation with compensation at fair market value, and dispute 
settlement, are absent from the new FIL. Hence,  with the benefit of assistance from several 
international organizations, including the OECD and International Finance Corporation, the 
Government of Myanmar is now in the process of taking steps to rectify these flaws by modifying both the FIL and MCIL by the end of 2014. Amon g the main immediate modifications concerning 
the FIL are a reduction in activities on the negative list from 21 to 11 and clarification of tax 
incentives as well as matters concerning environmental and social protection.  
2.15.  As a result of the emergence of several ambiguities in the New FIL and New MCIL, however, 
Myanmar's authorities are now actively working with the assistance of international experts to 
merge these two parallel laws into a single coherent investment law that will address the 
shortcomings of the two existing laws. Accord ingly, matters concerning MFN and national 
treatment, expropriation with compensation at fair market value, transparency, the alleged 
discretionary authority of the Myanmar Investme nt Commission, and dispute settlement are under 
consideration. The aim is to finalize the draft unified law during the autumn of 2014, carry out 
consultation with stakeholders and, ultimately, submit the law to Parliament at the end of 2014. 
2.16.  It is also noteworthy that on 10 April 2013, a one-stop service for foreign and local investors 
was established in Yangon. Investors who previously had to grapple with red tape in five or more 
ministries can now get everything done at the Yangon branch office of the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration (DICA). By reducing contacts between investors and 
officials in different ministries, the DICA can also help combat corruption. 
2.17.  Fully aware of the important role played by prot ection of intellectual property rights (IPRs) 
in attracting inward FDI, the Government of Myan mar is taking steps to overhaul its outdated IPR 
laws and ensure that these laws are enforced. Accordingly, three IPR laws in accordance with the 
TRIPs Agreement are being finalized with advice from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). These laws concern patents, trademarks  and copyright. The Ministry of Science and 
Technology is also preparing related enforcement provisions with WIPO assistance. Like the three 
IPR laws, these enforcement provisions are expected to enter into force later in 2014. 
2.18.  Furthermore, as the Myanmar Companies Act of 1914 is long outdated, a new law is being 
drafted with the assistance of the ADB in order to align its provisions with the current economic 
environment and international standards. The aim is to finalize the draft in May 2014. 
2.19.  As tariffs tend to disrupt supply chains, especially when they are levied on raw materials 
and intermediate inputs, tariff protection in Myanmar is relatively low by developing country and 
especially least-developed country standards - much lower (and less dispersed) even than in most 
ASEAN countries as well as Japan and Korea. The average applied MFN tariff rate is only 5.6%. Moreover, all applied MFN tariffs rates are ad valorem , thereby imparting a high degree of 
transparency to the tariff. While less than 20% of  tariffs are bound and the average of bound rates 
considerably exceeds average applied MFN rates, thereby providing considerable scope for raising 
applied rates, this scope has never been used, even in the absence of contingency measures. Consequently, the average applied MFN tariff rate has hardly changed since 1996. Furthermore, 
Myanmar does not impose any tariff rate quotas (or quantitative restraints).   
2.20.  While applied MFN tariff protection has long been low, non-tariff barriers to trade have been 
pervasive. One of the main non-tariff barriers ha s been Myanmar's export/import licensing system. 
In June 2012, however, the licensing regime was converted from non-automatic to automatic 
licensing. Furthermore, in March 2013, licensing requirements were essentially removed from a selection of 152 exported goods and 166 imported goods (encompassing 1,926 HS tariff lines) that were not considered sensitive.  
2.21.  In addition, taxes on most exports were removed in 2012/13, so that they are now levied 
on only a handful of natural resource products (namely, gems, oil and gas, teak and other timber) WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  that might be expected to generate economic rents. These remaining export taxes are intended 
primarily to capture an appropriate share of natural resource rents for the budget and, as such, are components of Myanmar's tax regime for natural resources. At the same time, however, they can also foster Myanmar's industrialization by inducing downstream processing of the products 
concerned. 
2.22.  The Government of Myanmar is also simplifying the current internal tax system and making 
it more neutral with respect to trade. The previously multi-rate commercial turnover tax, the sole 
domestic indirect tax, has now been largely unified at a relatively low rate of 5%. Only Schedule 
six goods, including alcohol, tobacco, petroleum products, and vehicles, which would normally be subject to excises in other countries, are now subject to a range of higher rates. Moreover, the commercial tax on most exports was eliminated at the beginning of 2012/13, thereby reducing the 
tax component of export prices and hence making Myanmar's exports more competitive on world 
markets. 
2.23.  Several steps have been taken to encourage the active participation of the private sector in 
international trade. In particular, state trading monopolies were largely abolished in 
November 2011 so that private enterprises and individuals can now import and export all but a few products. 
2.24.  In order to overcome infrastructure bottlen ecks, attract FDI and increase exports, two 
parallel laws, the Myanmar Special Economic Zone Law and Dawei Special Economic Zone Law were enacted shortly before the new Government took  office in 2011. They were an integral part 
of a strategy to promote Myanmar as a low-cost production base for export destinations within the 
wider region. However, the two laws were found to  be deficient in inducing foreign and domestic 
investors to locate their investments in these SEZs. Moreover, the two laws raised some doubts about the harmonization of the regulatory framew ork across zones. Therefore, the two laws have 
been revised as a new Myanmar Special Economic Zone Law, which was enacted in January 2014. 
2.25.  In connection with the 5-year National Export Strategy (NES) begun in 2013 and formulated 
with technical assistance from the International Trade Centre, following the completion of the 
design phase in November 2013, the NES is being finalized. Once formally endorsed by the 
Cabinet of the Union of Myanmar, the NES will en ter its implementation phase. While the NES has 
been designed primarily with export competitiv eness and export development in mind, it will 
achieve much more that. The NES provides fo r the establishment of a Myanmar Trade Council 
(MTC) that will manage and monitor the implementation of the NES over time. Thus, the NES 
serves as a blueprint for export and trade development and a platform for coordination of aid for trade and donor alignment. The Myanmar Trade Council  is also being established to deal with, or 
follow up on, other trade policy or trade-related technical assistance initiatives, such as the 
Diagnostic Trade Integration Study (in the contex t of the Enhanced Integrated Framework), in 
comprehensive and coherent way. 
2.26.  As regards trade facilitation (TF), in order to expedite customs clearance, the Government 
of Myanmar has been implementing a National Single Window (NSW) with a view to its integration with the ASEAN Single Window (ASW) by 2015. This Single Window will facilitate Myanmar's trade, 
not just with its ASEAN partners, but also globally, thereby enhancing Myanmar's role as a trade 
crossroads. The Customs Department is working to establish the Single Window with technical 
assistance from Japan. In connection with TF, Myanmar is now drafting an Implementation Plan consistent with the WTO's new rules agreed in Ba li, thanks to TA provided by the UNCTAD. In 
addition, the Ministry of Commerce has initiated the formal procedure for accession to the 
Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) for trade-related assistance. The EIF will help Myanmar to play a more active role in the global trading system. It will require, among other things, a great 
deal of analysis of Myanmar's trade and the establ ishment of a formal system of coordination with 
relevant development partners.  
2.27.  In accordance with the Government's objective of reducing the role of the State in the 
economy, thereby rendering it more market-oriented, most state-owned economic enterprises 
(SEEs) have been privatized. As a consequence, their presence is now large only in energy, 
forestry, construction, telecommunications, social and public administration. The few SEEs that do remain are subject to stricter financial discipline as well as strong incentives for profit-making so 
that they operate on a commercial basis. Furtherm ore, the Government rarely intervenes in the 
setting of prices. Such intervention is confined mainly to energy. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  2.28.  Increased foreign competition owing to the liberalization of trade and foreign investment is a 
mixed blessing for Myanmar's local firms. This is especially true for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the economy, accounting for over 90% of enterprises and some 70% of the workforce. Howe ver, SMEs are characterized by relatively low 
productivity owing to a lack of capital and outdat ed technology, among other things. In recognition 
of SMEs' importance and the need to foster their development, the Government of Myanmar is implementing a number of policies, including loan s from the Small and Medium Industrial Bank 
(SMIDB) at a relatively low interest rate of 8.5% (instead of 13% charged by other banks). 
2.29.  Major improvements in Myanmar's basic infrastructure are critical for both economic growth 
and poverty reduction. Myanmar cannot be a crossroads in the region, for example, without adequate transport links internally and with neig hbouring countries. Accordingly, the Government 
of Myanmar is proceeding urgently with the completion of high priority transport and other 
infrastructure in order to fulfil the goal of integrating Myanmar into the ASEAN Economic Community. Priority is being given to building infras tructure projects that will provide the missing 
links identified in the Master Plan of ASEAN Conne ctivity, such as transport links with China and 
India as well as Thailand. A Master Plan is also being prepared concerning power supply, which is one of the most pressing economic challenges  facing Myanmar. Without an accessible and a 
reliable electricity system, Myanmar's economic progress is bound to stall. Addressing this 
challenge will require an expanded and modern electricity grid as well as new sources of domestic energy and innovative solutions for rural energy ac cess. Clearly, inward FDI can play an important 
role in the development and management of such infrastructure. 
2.30.  In order to facilitating economic diversification towards services (whose share of GDP is only 
37.5%), the Government of Myanmar is taking st eps to open some services, particularly those 
involving essential infrastructure and thus hitherto dominated by SEEs, to the private sector, 
including foreign investors. Among the sector s that have been liberalized are energy, 
telecommunications and finance. For example, two new nationwide telecommunications licences were awarded to two foreign providers of services in June 2013 following an open tender.   
2.31.  A major step towards the development of a domestic capital market involved the Securities 
Exchange Law, which was enacted in July 2013, as part of a plan to establish a stock exchange by 2015, with assistance from the Daiwa Institute of Research and the cooperation of the Tokyo Stock Exchange Ltd. 
2.32.  In order to ensure more inclusive growth, so that its fruits are fairly shared among all the 
Myanmar inhabitants, thereby contributing to social harmony and stability, the Government has also been implementing various social policies. These policies are aimed mainly at strengthening 
basic education and technical skills as well as he althcare. Consequently, compared to 2011/12, the 
2012/13 budget increased allocations for health and education almost five-fold and two-fold, 
respectively, and such expenditures will in crease further in the coming years.   
2.33.  Moreover, the Government has been implementing environmentally-friendly policies, 
notably those in connection with the FIL and Environmental Conservation Law, enacted on 30 March 2012. The Government of Myanmar's over arching goal is to achieve "Green Economy 
Green Growth".   
2.34.  In addition to the measures outlined in the Government report to ensure greater 
transparency, Myanmar adopted the IMF's General Data Dissemination System (GDDS) on 15 November 2013 with a view to bringing national statistics into line with international best 
practices. Participation in the GDDS is an important milestone and marks a crucial step for 
Myanmar's statistical development. It provides a framework to help Myanmar develop its statistical system in order to produce comprehensive and accu rate statistics for evidence-based policymaking 
and analysis. The upcoming national census to be undertaken with the assistance of the United 
Nations Population Fund from 30 March to 10 April 2014 will also provide essential data for evidence-based policymaking and analysis. 
2.35.  Finally, looking ahead, the Government will continue along the path to a more 
market-oriented and open economy increasingly integrated into the global economy. With a 
helping hand from its trading partners, notably open markets and TA, the Government of Myanmar is confident that it can pursue the wide-ranging economic and trade reforms necessary to WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  overcome the formidable challenges it faces. Judging from the success of other countries in the 
region in lifting per capita income and reducing poverty, these reforms will enable Myanmar to realize its full potential.   WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT 
3.1.  I t  i s  a n  h o n o u r  t o  b e  t h e  d i s c u s s a n t  f o r  t h i s  f i r s t  T r a d e  P o l i c y  R e v i e w  o f  M y a n m a r .  O u r  
discussion has begun well with the opening presentation from Deputy Minister, His Excellency U Pwint San, and the comprehensive reports from both the Government of Myanmar and the WTO 
Secretariat.  
3.2.  In my role as discussant I hope to highlight some themes that I believe are particularly 
relevant for Members in this Review. All Trade Policy Reviews are an opportunity not only to 
welcome the progress that the Member under review has made in its trade policy, but also to 
gather observations and constructive criticism from other WTO Members on areas for further improvement. This is especially true today for this first Review of Myanmar. In this spirit of constructive engagement I will point out both positive developments – and there are very many – 
as well as areas that the Government of Myanmar may wish to consider as future reform priorities. 
I would also encourage Members to consider where they may be able to assist Myanmar in implementing its reform priorities, as a Least Developed Country that continues to face 
considerable capacity constraints.  
3.3.  Myanmar has embarked on a highly ambitious re form program. It is impossible to not be 
impressed by the scope of the economic reforms being implemented, but also with the successes 
already achieved. As well as being in a process of very significant political transition, Myanmar is 
engaged in a wide-ranging process of transition from a centrally-planned to a market-based economy. With this has come a clear effort to shift from its previous isolation to being more fully integrated into the regional and global economy. The Government report makes clear that it sees 
an open global trading system, with Myanmar as an active participant, as central to its economic 
development and poverty reduction pl ans. This should be welcomed. 
3.4.  A number of positive developments reflect this transition. As the Government report 
identifies, the shift in April 2012 from a fixed to a more flexible foreign exchange regime has had a 
very significant impact in opening up the potential for greater trade and investment. This has been accompanied by efforts to streamline the import and export regime, which appear to have had a 
positive effect on trade. The removal of import license requirements for 166 products in April 2013 
is welcome, as is the restructuring of the export licensing regime, so that from 2013, 152 goods no longer require export licenses. Export taxes have also been simplified. 
3.5.  Against this backdrop of significant refo rm, both exports and imports have grown 
substantially in recent years. Investment has also grown with IMF figures showing that FDI from 
April to September 2013 was already double that of the previous 12 months. The Government of Myanmar has signalled its strong interest in attracting further investment through the 2012 
Foreign Investment Law, and its efforts to im prove the regulatory environment. Trade and 
investment flows can only be expected to increase as the reform process and integration into the global economy continues. It is clear that this is an area of considerable interest for Members, and 
as we proceed through this review, I would en courage the Government of Myanmar and Members 
to consider further options to sustain this process.  
3.6.  The Government's efforts to harness trade and investment as a tool for strong, sustainable 
and inclusive economic growth have led to early results. GDP has grown steadily in recent years. It 
is notable that this has taken place across all sect ors of the economy, rather than being confined 
to any particular sector. The fundamentals of Myanmar's economy are increasingly strong, and the potential for sustained broad-based growth is cl ear. Myanmar is centrally-located in a dynamic 
region, and has clear plans for using this to its advantage. It has abundant natural assets, which if 
harnessed in a sustainable manner, have great potential to contribute to long-term growth.  
3.7.  The Government of Myanmar has clear plans to boost growth in the agricultural sector. The 
report notes that agriculture accounts for aro und one third of GDP, and more than 60% of 
employment, making the sector central to the Government's economic and social objectives. The increased openness to foreign investment in the agriculture sector could help spur innovation, as could assistance from development partners to help the Government meets its objectives of 
increasing agricultural productivity.   WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  3.8.  The services sector will also be central to the Government's reform program. Its report 
recognizes that increasing the competitiveness of the services sector not only has the potential to 
create new export opportunities, but also to boost competitiveness across all sectors of the economy. Some very positive steps have been made and I would encourage the Government of 
Myanmar to continue its efforts to boost the competiveness of services, including through 
openness to foreign investment and further improvements to the regulatory environment and business climate. Tourism will clearly be an important sector. In addition to tourism, it is important 
to note that the experience of other Least Develo ped Countries underlines the importance of other 
services sectors for economic growth and deve lopment, including telecommunications and IT, 
transport and logistics, and financial services. 
3.9.  Despite this positive progress, it is clear that Myanmar continues to face considerable 
challenges. Support from development partners to  help Myanmar meet these challenges will be 
critical, as will continued reform efforts by the Government. I would like to outline four broad themes on which I would encourage further reflection and engagement as we proceed with this 
Review: 
1. Transparency; 
2. Further streamlining and simplification of  the trade and economic policy framework; 
3. The business climate; and 
4. Aid for Trade 
3.10.  Transparency will have a central role in the ongoing reform effort. This trade policy review 
itself is a very important transparency exercise, gathering together information on key economic 
policies for WTO Members, traders, and other stakeholders to examine. The energy with which the 
Myanmar delegation has approached this is welcome, including in its timely and comprehensive response to the large number of questions asked by Members. As the reform process continues 
this effort will need to be built upon. For example, I would encourage the Government of Myanmar 
to review carefully the status of its WTO notificati ons. Table 2.2 of the Secretariat report outlines a 
number of notifications that could be updated. Of course, the effort required to prepare 
notifications is significant, but experience shows they can be a useful tool for inter-ministerial 
coordination on trade policy, while also benefiting transparency. It should also be noted that there is support available through the WTO Global Trust Fund and other bodies to assist in this process. The large number of questions from Members on Myanmar's investment policy framework reflects 
the high degree of interest in this area, and sugg ests that this could be a further priority for 
improving transparency. 
3.11.  A second priority could be further effort to streamline procedures and simplify the trade and 
economic policy framework. It is clear that this is already a priority, and there are many areas 
where the Government could focus in its next steps – indeed, too many to detail today. However, some areas are directly related to trade policy and could be relatively simple to implement. For 
example, further effort could be made to simplify  the existing tariff regime, while also building 
confidence in its predictability. The tariff regime is relatively complex, and includes a high proportion of "nuisance tariffs" that appear to serve little benefit. While recognizing this is not unique to Myanmar, and welcoming the low average applied tariff, there are also many lines where 
there is a large amount of "water" between bound and applied tariff rates. Reducing bound tariff 
levels would increase the confidence of traders and send a positive signal to the business community. Similarly, further efforts to streamline export and import licences would be welcome. 
And on border clearance procedures, the WTO Ag reement on Trade Facilitation offers a highly 
valuable tool for prioritizing customs reform and for encouraging assistance from development partners in this important area.  
3.12.  Third, the considerable efforts to improve the business environment have to be 
acknowledged, while recognizing the need for more progress. The World Bank Group's Doing 
Business rankings indicate modest improvements in many aspects of the business climate, but also indicate priority areas for reform, including invest or protection, contract enforcement, and ease of 
starting a business. Despite the reform effort underway, perception-based surveys like the World 
Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Report highlight that business continues to perceive WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  significant shortcomings in the business environmen t, which will be important to tackle in future. 
These include access to finance, policy instability, corruption, and skills. Progress has of course been made, indicated for example in the jump in  2013 from 172 to 152nd place in Transparency 
International's Corruption Perception Index. Ad dressing these perceptions will be of central 
important as the Government looks to spur further private sector-led growth in the transition to a 
market-based economy, including through greater trade and investment. I am confident of the Government of Myanmar's will to address these challenges, and encourage the active engagement 
of development partners in this effort.  
3.13.  On this note, I would like to conclude with a fourth priority on the need for sustained Aid for 
Trade to support the Government of Myanmar's refo rm efforts. The useful Annex in the Secretariat 
reports sets out the interest from a number of partners in this effort. The WTO is playing its part, 
including through the important work of the Enha nced Integrated Framework in marshalling donor 
support. As donor engagement continues to grow, the challenge of ensuring a coordinated response to Myanmar's Aid for Trade needs will also grow. I encourage the Government and 
development partners to work closely together to avoid any duplication of effort. The experience of 
Myanmar's ASEAN neighbours shows that the strong est results are achieved when Aid for Trade is 
clearly incorporated into a country's broader growth strategy. It is important that Myanmar take 
an active role in defining its Aid for Trade priorities and coordinating trade-related assistance. 
3.14.  Let me conclude by congratulating the Government of Myanmar and its delegation, led by 
Deputy Minister His Excellency U Pwint San, for it s remarkable economic reform efforts in recent 
years. I am confident that this trade policy review  will be a useful experience and hope that you 
will return from Geneva with yet more energy to build on the successes that you have already 
achieved. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS 
THAILAND  ON BEHALF  OF ASEAN 
4.1.  ASEAN welcomes Myanmar's first Trade Policy Review (TPR), which is undertaken in the spirit 
of transparency, as embodied in the TPR Mechan ism, and the significant progress of Myanmar's 
wide-ranging political, social and economic reforms aimed at its re-integration into the global 
economy.  
4.2.  We give due recognition to Myanmar's economic performance in view of the fact that real 
GDP growth has accelerated from 5.1% in fi scal year 2009/10 (year ending March) to an 
estimated 6.4% in 2012/13 and 6.8% in 2013/14, le d by gas production and both domestic and 
foreign investment.  
4.3.  In the regional context, Myanmar's trade wi th ASEAN Member States and its Dialogue 
Partners accounted for about 95%. That was until a few years ago. Myanmar has committed to 
ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) and its average tariff under the ATIGA was 0.6% in 2012. Myanmar has, inter alia , abolished import and export licensing requirements on an initial 
selection of 1,928 non-sensitive commodities, made some progress on land reforms and tax 
reforms, and made improvements to basic infrastructure (transport and telecoms).  
4.4.  ASEAN also notes that Myanmar has been impl ementing the National Single Window (NSW) 
for trade facilitation in accordance with the principles of transparency, simplicity, efficiency and 
consistency with a view to its integration with the ASEAN Single Window (ASW) by 2015. ASEAN is 
convinced that this Single Window will facilitate Myanmar's trade, not just with its ASEAN partners, 
but also globally. 
4.5.  We are very much aware that Myanmar has been working closely with other ASEAN members 
towards achieving the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) by 2015, which consists of the four pillars: a single market and production base; a highly competitive economic region; a region of 
equitable economic development; and a region that is fully integrated into the global economy. It 
is also noted that Myanmar is committed to implementing all its ASEAN commitments by 2015-2018 in accordance with the built-in flexibility. 
4.6.  We also welcome Myanmar's commitment to liberalizing intra-ASEAN trade and its services 
sector in 2015, and signing the ASEAN comprehensive Investment Agreement (ACIA) in 2009 with a view to increasing intra-ASEAN investment  and streamlining existing ASEAN Investment 
Agreements.  
4.7.  ASEAN commends Myanmar on its economic development and the achievement on the 
wide-ranging economic and trade reforms. Some ASEAN Member States have submitted written questions to the delegation of Myanmar and we would like to thank Myanmar in advance for its 
written responses. 
THAILAND 4.8.  Myanmar is our neighbouring country; we share the longest land boundary of 
1,800 kilometres. Myanmar is currently Thailand's 17th trading partner, and Thailand is Myanmar's 
second largest trading partner after China. We are Myanmar's largest export destination and rank third as main import suppliers. We are also the second largest investor in Myanmar. 
4.9.  Myanmar and Thailand regularly hold bilateral meetings between Ministers of Foreign Affairs 
and Ministers of Trade. The sixth Joint Trade Commission was held in Bangkok in November 2012 
where the two sides had agreed to strengthen trade and investment by eliminating tariff and non-tariff barriers, with the focus on trading across border checkpoints. The seventh Joint 
Commission for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting where we discussed cooperation in other 
areas outside trade, was held in Nay Pyi Taw at the end of last year. Thailand and Myanmar are also members of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic 
Cooperation or BIMSTEC. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4.10.  With this close-knit trade relationship, Thailand is very pleased and much welcomes 
Myanmar's continuing growth and the tireless effort in major economic reforms. We appreciate Myanmar's new Central Bank Law enacted in 2013, the new Foreign Investment Law in 2012, and elimination of import licensing requirements for particular products. Myanmar is also in the process 
of preparing and revising trade-related legislation, including competition law, consumer protection 
law and IPR regime. All of these indicate how far Myanmar has come and how ready Myanmar is to continue to be even more integrated to the multilateral trading system.   
4.11.  As an ASEAN member, Thailand is very grateful for Myanmar's contribution to the group. As 
our Ministers at the ASEAN Economic Ministers' retreat just reaffirmed the intention to continue working towards achieving the targets of the ASEAN  Economic Community in 2015, this year will 
involve hard work among ASEAN members. We are confident that under Myanmar's ASEAN 
Chairmanship this year, ASEAN will progress in th e right direction towards AEC goals, along with 
negotiations of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and ASEAN's intention to expeditiously implement the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement. 
4.12.  At this trade policy review, Thailand seeks to  better understand and some clarifications on 
different aspects of Myanmar's trade and trade- related measures, such as how to challenge 
Myanmar Investment Commission's decision under  the new Foreign Investment Law, Myanmar's 
prohibition and restriction of specific imports, the process of bidding for construction projects, and 
Myanmar's export licensing regime. We appreciate Myanmar's response, which will definitely help both our public and private sectors better underst and Myanmar's policies and regulations. This will 
eventually lead to enhance and strengthen our trade and investment relationship. 
LAO
 PDR 
4.13.  As ASEAN neighbours and with more than 200 km shared border, Lao PDR and Myanmar 
have enjoyed friendly relations and close cooperation. Cooperation between the two countries has 
deepened in a broad range of areas. Recent developments include, among others, the ongoing 
construction of a Lao-Myanmar Friendship Bridge across the Mekong River, which is scheduled for completion by March 2015. The bridge will provide the first road link between the two countries, 
aimed at boosting trade, investment and tourism between Lao PDR and Myanmar, as well as in the 
ASEAN region. The two countries have also agreed to open direct flights to further facilitate trade, investment and travel. Lao PDR and Myanmar continue working closely to further broadening and strengthening cooperative relations at the bilateral, as well as regional and multilateral levels. 
4.14.  Lao PDR recognizes and commends efforts made by Myanmar in the past few years towards 
liberalizing its trade regime, opening up its econ omy and engaging in significant market reforms, 
which resulted in accelerated real GDP growth from 5.1% in fiscal year 2009/10 to an estimated 
6.8% in 2013/14. 
4.15.  Lao PDR is pleased to note that the initiated reforms are oriented towards progressive 
abolishment or reduction of trade obstacles, coupled with foreign exchange, fiscal and other 
macroeconomic reforms, as well as liberalization of the foreign investment regime. Furthermore, 
Myanmar effectively contributes to the realizat ion of the ASEAN Economic Community by 2015, 
which we believe will also contribute to the trade reforms and liberalization processes in the country and at the multilateral level. 
4.16.  In concluding my statement I wish to express our appreciation to His Excellency 
Ambassador Maung Wai and his team in Geneva as the Chair of ASEAN this year, for their active coordination and engagements, including among ASEAN LDCs. 
HONDURAS 
4.17.  Como bien lo indica el informe de la Secretaría, las diversas reformas emprendidas por 
Myanmar desde 2010 han trazado el camino para que el país se pueda reincorporar a la 
comunidad internacional, después de muchos años de aislamiento. De igual forma que el Gobierno 
birmano, Honduras acoge con gran satisfacción este primer examen de políticas comerciales, 
gracias al cual hemos podido analizar los avances realizados en los últimos tres años para transformar la economía birmana y reincorporarla a la economía global después de 50 años. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4.18.  Notamos con gran satisfacción en el informe del Gobierno que las autoridades birmanas son 
conscientes de la necesidad de introducir reformas, y en el marco de las mismas han establecido como prioridades: un desarrollo industrial y agríco la sostenido que reduzca la pobreza y fomente el 
desarrollo rural; un reparto equitativo de recursos a nivel nacional; y la aplicación de programas 
de desarrollo con un enfoque participativo y orientados al desarrollo social. 
4.19.  El camino no es nada fácil, no obstante notamos con enorme agrado los esfuerzos y las 
medidas que el Gobierno de Myanmar ha adopta do para abrir su economía y reformar su 
legislación comercial. Según lo señala el informe de la Secretaría, Myanmar está preparando, entre 
otras disposiciones, una ley de competencia, una ley de protección del consumidor y una legislación completa en materia de derechos de propiedad intelectual, lo que consideramos será un paso fundamental en la consecución de sus objetivos. Asimismo, notamos con satisfacción que en 
el 2012 se promulgó la nueva Ley de Inversiones Ex tranjeras, la cual, a través de la inversión y 
generación de empleos, será parte integrante para generar el desarrollo continuo y sostenible que el país necesita. 
4.20.  Cabe recalcar que Myanmar tiene un alto pote ncial de crecimiento gracias a su mano de 
obra joven, sus abundantes recursos naturales (la gran mayoría sin desarrollar) y su proximidad a 
una de las regiones económicas más dinámicas del mundo. Sin embargo, la falta de capacidad e 
infraestructura siguen siendo las principales limitantes para lograr modernizar su economía.  
4.21.  Asimismo nos complace observar que en el 2012, se sustituyó el sobrevaluado tipo de 
cambio oficial vinculado al dólar por un régimen de flotación regulada, medida fundamental para 
facilitar la importación y exportación de mercancías y servicios. De igual manera, la supresión de 
las licencias de importación y exportación respecto a 1,928 productos no sensibles, lo cual ha 
beneficiado la reforma agraria y fiscal. 
4.22.  Por último, deseamos agradecer a las autoridades birmanas por responder a las preguntas 
que realizamos y le deseamos un exitoso primer examen de política comercial y desde ya nos 
congratulamos de los logros alcanzados por Myanmar. 
CANADA 
4.23.  Permit me in the interests of time to state our position succinctly. Deputy Minister of 
Commerce, Dr. Pwint San, his distinguished delegati on, and his Government deserve real credit for 
the important steps they have taken over the past three years to re-integrate the country globally as well as regionally. But there is much more to be done. And Canadians, in government and in 
business, stand ready to assist. 
4.24.  On the plus side, Dr. San and his colleagues have pursued major economic and fiscal policy 
changes -- such as foreign exchange rate unification and lifting of key exchange rate restrictions, 
promulgation of a new foreign investment law, and measures to improve availability of electricity 
and telecommunications. These all contribute in a major way to building a more democratic, transparent, open, and business friendly economy.  More broadly, the efforts to foster good 
governance, including the 2012 anti-corruption law, the commitment to achieve a nation-wide 
ceasefire and to ensure stable institutions are necessary for sustainable economic development.  
4.25.  The "Framework for Economic and Social Refo rms" sets out the path of market-oriented 
reforms, and I echo the assertion in your Policy Statement that such efforts will help position your 
country to harness the opportunities afforded by the multilateral trading system to further 
sustainable economic development. But one of th e most important benefits of the multilateral 
trading system is that it fosters a transparent, stable and predictable business environment 
through implementation of its rules and norms. Canada would therefore encourage you to meet 
your WTO obligations including bringing all applied tariffs within WTO bound commitments and meeting notification requirements.   
4.26.  Canada is also encouraged by your stated desire to pursue even deeper economic 
integration, as demonstrated by your chairmanship of ASEAN. ASEAN is committed to open regionalism, and Canada looks forward to continui ng collaboration with your trade and investment 
partners.   WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4.27.  Since the 2012 easing of Canadian sanctions, Canadian companies have shown an increased 
interest in your economy, particularly as investors in the oil and gas, mining and telecommunications sectors. In telecommunications, we welcome the recent issuing of licenses to foreign companies as an important step to improving the penetration of IT in the country; in other 
words, to increase "teledensity". As an enabling sector, broad access to competitive 
telecommunications can improve the lives of people by increasing access to e-banking, electronic 
crop reports, telemedicine, e-education and even ty phoon warnings in rural areas. Just this past 
month, the Canadian export financing agency, Ex port Development Canada, expanded its suite of 
products to Canadian companies interested in pursuing future opportunities such as these in your market.  
4.28.  In mining, we support your objective of joining the "Extractive Industries Transparency 
Initiative". This commitment to transparency, wh en implemented, should attract new investments 
into the sector, alongside your new mining law. Mandatory requirements for environmental and sustainability impact assessments are another posi tive development in the oil and gas, and mining, 
sectors.    
4.29.  We recognize that capacity-building support will likely be required to be able to implement 
these new requirements. We note and sympathise with the capacity and infrastructure challenges 
highlighted in your Policy Statement, including the challenge of developing and implementing 
needed socio-economic reforms. In our view, sound policy decisions on the direction and sequencing of economic reforms must be informed  and supported by data collection and analysis. 
Your initiative, with the assistance of The World Bank, to undertake the first major population and 
labour force surveys will provide an essential basis for this.  
4.30.  Building on this, we would encourage you to develop a comprehensive statistical program 
specific to the agri-food sector, given the critical importance of this sector for your economy. The 
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) may be best positioned to assist in 
this endeavour. We would invite you to review the statistical programs and publications of Statistics Canada, our national statistical agency, as a potential model for building your statistical 
program. 
4.31.  In sum, Canada stands ready to support ongoing efforts to build democracy and further 
sustainable economic development. We are ready to share our lessons learned from a Government 
perspective and to match our private sector with your needs, whether in infrastructure or 
otherwise. 
4.32.  Canada submitted written questions that reflect our concerns in the area of tariff bindings, 
commercial tax, and agricultural and tourism policy. We thank you for the written responses 
provided, which we are reviewing carefully.   
4.33.  My delegation and I look forward to our exchange  of views in this trade policy review as you 
continue on the path of reform. 
SINGAPORE 
4.34.  Singapore and Myanmar enjoy long-standing econ omic ties which have seen healthy growth, 
especially in recent years. In 2013, bilateral trade increased 71% year-on-year to reach US$2.37 billion, with Singapore be ing Myanmar's 3rd largest trading partner . As of January 2014, 
Singapore was Myanmar's 4th largest foreign investor with approved investments amounting to 
US$3.8 billion. In 2013, Myanmar rose eleven places  to become our 37th largest trading partner. 
Our key export items were petroleum products, electronics and furniture, while key imports from 
Myanmar were petroleum products and articles of iron or steel.  
4.35.  As the Secretariat report has indicated, Myanmar has large growth potential. Its 
re-integration into the world economy following the reforms started in 2011 have already seen 
tangible positive results in the form of rising real GDP growth, with an estimated 6.4% for 
2012-2013 and 6.8% in 2013-2014. The process of economic and regulatory reform is never easy, and the commitment of a Government to sustaining the process of reform for the long run is crucial to ensuring success. In that regard, we welcome Myanmar's Government report which 
acknowledges frankly the areas where reforms, transparency and update of laws are much WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  needed. The steps that Myanmar has taken in recent years, as part of its Framework for Economic 
and Social Reforms, demonstrate its commitment to addressing these issues.  
4.36.  We welcome Myanmar's trade facilitation measures, including the move towards a single 
window by 2015, and reforms of its import licensing regime, that have seen the abolition of import 
licensing requirements for 166 products in 2013 an d export licensing requirements for 152 types 
of goods. We also welcome Myanmar's investment liberalization through its new Foreign Investment Law, which contains a reduced list of prohibited activities. We note that there are 
preparations to put in place further regulatory transparency as well as competition, consumer 
protection and IPR legislation to support investme nt and other business activities. In line with its 
plans for people-centred development and poverty reduction, Myanmar has also put in place relevant polices, such as those that would fost er the development of small and medium sized 
enterprises. We encourage Myanmar to continue pursuing these reforms to provide greater 
predictability and transparency for traders and investors, and stand ready to provide assistance where we can.   
4.37.  From Members' questions and some of the statem ents already made this morning, it is clear 
that Members take a keen interest in Myanmar's progress and development. We too are pleased to take part in this peer review exercise and commend Myanmar for its use of the alternative timeline 
which has allowed us more time to review their replies to members' questions. Myanmar has made 
important strides in its efforts to transform its economy. We are confident that the Myanmar Government will continue to undertake the necessary economic reforms and adopt international best practices to enhance its economic competitiveness and attractiveness to foreign investors.  
4.38.  This year also marks Myanmar's first Chairmanship of the ASEAN since it joined the 
organization in 1997. Myanmar has outlined its priorities for its chairmanship year, which 
demonstrates its commitment towards increasing trade and investment relations in the region. 
Singapore welcomes Myanmar's leadership as ASE AN Chair, and we look forward to working 
closely with Myanmar on furthering regional econ omic integration and realising the vision of the 
ASEAN Economic Community by 2015. 
4.39.  We also appreciate our good cooperation with  Ambassador Maung Wai and his diligent team 
in Geneva, in the common goal of upholding the multilateral trading system.  
UNITED
 STATES 
4.40.  We welcome the delegation from Nay Pyi Daw led by Deputy Commerce Minister Dr. Pwint 
San. This first trade policy review comes at an opportune time, when you are pursuing economic 
reform in the context of the Framework for Economic and Social Reform and formulation of the National Comprehensive Development Plan. We look forward to learning more about your 
progress, objectives, and challenges faced. 
4.41.  The Government report notes that your co untry was a founding Member of the GATT and 
was present during post-war discussions on the cr eation of a global trading system. Within the 
GATT archives, there is a document of historic interest and relevance to this review - a statement 
by Burma's delegate to the Havana Conference in 1947, in which he described his country's objectives for the trading system taking shape. Noting that the country was undergoing a rapid process of political development, he expressed hope that trade would power reconstruction, raise 
material standards of living including working conditions for the people, facilitate new 
manufacturing activities beyond the field of prim ary production, and - he said - bring about "the 
greater happiness of a great mass of humanity and be an instrument of peace". 
4.42.  Today those aspirations remain. In its repo rt, the Government acknowledges decades of 
isolation, economic mismanagement, and stagnati on. This legacy has brought per capita GDP to 
the lowest level in ASEAN and the second lowest level in Asia. Despite your country's great 
potential and its success as an exporter of produc ts such as rice many years ago, it has missed 
decades of trade and export-led economic growth that has benefited so many other Asian economies. This is why reform is so vital. It creates the potential for positive change. The United States hopes the reforms you have started will continue and lead to inclusive, participatory 
economic growth, opportunity and peace for your people - consistent with the vision of its delegate 
to the Havana Conference 70 years ago. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4.43.  We note with interest the Government's emphasis on the importance of transparency, and 
specific actions including making information available on the Ministry of Commerce website, improving the quality of statistical information, and moving to internationally recognized standards of openness as part of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. It also will be important to 
increase participation in WTO meetings and to pay greater attention to specific WTO obligations, 
including notifications. These actions will help establish a stronger foundation for a market economy by improving public accountability, enhancin g the rule of law, and reducing corruption, as 
well as provide traders the information they n eed to do business and connect to global supply 
chains. 
4.44.  We know that senior Government officials and leading members of Parliament want to 
achieve inclusive economic growth with tangible benefits such as jobs. Transparency and open 
policy development are essential for inclusive grow th. For trade-related issues, we encourage you 
to consult with the full range of stakeholders in the policy development process including, where 
appropriate, labour groups and organizations, civil society, foreign companies interested in your 
market, and non-governmental organizations with expe rtise to share. If it would be helpful to you, 
we could consider launching a technical assistance program in the context of our Trade and Investment Framework Agreement to provide an  overview of the trade policy development 
processes that countries use to consult with and inform stakeholders. 
4.45.  Among the reforms under way, we recognize positive steps in administering customs 
policies, including the elimination of the linkage between export receipts and import licensing and the removal of import licensing requirements for certain products. The Secretariat report adds that 
fewer goods are subject to export licensing. During this review, we would be interested in learning 
more about your Government's plans for further reforms in this area, which could improve the availability of goods needed by your economy as  it develops. Further reforms also would have 
other advantages, too, including reducing the scope for rent seeking by traders wanting to control 
licenses and bringing your trade regime into gr eater conformity with WTO rules. Liberalization 
efforts that simplify conditions for import and export will support the growth of your country’s 
small and medium-sized enterprises as well as cr eate an environment more conducive for foreign 
investors. 
4.46.  We welcome a number of positive developments on intellectual property (IP); including work 
towards new legislation on patents, copyrights, tr ademarks, and industrial designs, as well as 
discussion of the creation of a single national IP office and specialized IP court. We note that you 
are working closely with the World Intellectual Pr operty Organization on these initiatives and 
believe that IP stakeholders in the United States also would be interested in supporting your 
efforts. In light of the capacity constraints identified in the Secretariat report, we also are prepared 
to look for technical assistance opportunities through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 
4.47.  More broadly, we appreciate the efforts the Government has made to address important 
labour concerns which have affected its ability to fully integrate into the global economy. As noted 
in the Government report, these include your commitments to eliminate forced labor by 2015 as part of its collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), ratification of ILO Convention 182 on the worst form of child labour, passing the Labour Organizations Law, which 
provides for freedom of association, and working to advance an Employment and Skill 
Development Law.   
4.48.  In our written questions, we sought information about policies in these and other areas, 
including sanitary and phytosanitary measures, telecommunications, competition, state trading, 
and plans for privatization of state owned enterpri ses. The large number of our questions reflects 
our interest in your reforms, as well as our desire for these reforms to lead to lasting positive 
change for the people of your country. 
HONG
 KONG,  CHINA 
4.49.  We are very glad to participate in this first trade policy review of Myanmar. We are also 
pleased that Myanmar has adopted the alternative timeline which enhances interactions during the 
review. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4.50.  We warmly welcome Myanmar's political reforms in the last few years which have paved the 
way for its full reintegration into the international Community. The challenges are daunting and multifaceted as it is well said in the Government report and forthrightly highlighted by Dr. San. But the commitment to reform and to transparency is equally clear and unambiguous. 
4.51.  In particular, we appreciate Myanmar's commi tment to a more open and market-oriented 
economy and its efforts in liberalizing trade and investment. A strong economy would greatly facilitate all the other reforms and changes needed and envisaged. 
4.52.  Hong Kong, China and Myanmar enjoy a good trade and economic relationship. Bilateral 
trade in goods has witnessed a robust growth with  an average annual growth rate of 17% in the 
last five years.  
4.53.  Hong Kong, China is also the 3
rd largest source of FDI into Myanmar accounting for 15% of 
Myanmar's FDI stocks in 2012. We are also pleased that Hong Kong, China and Myanmar have 
concluded negotiations on a Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement which would bring mutual economic benefits. 
4.54.  In addition, Hong Kong, China and ASEAN are now pursuing a free trade agreement and 
Myanmar is the ASEAN Chair this year. An ASEAN- Hong Kong FTA will enable us to take our 
bilateral economic relations with Myanmar to a new level offering wealth opportunities to 
businesses as well as to investors from both economies. 
4.55.  On Myanmar's foreign investment policies, we are pleased to see Myanmar's efforts in 
improving its business environment for foreign investors, including the introduction of a new Foreign Investment Law and Citizens Investment  Law which, among other things, enhance the 
transparency of Myanmar's foreign investment  regime and allow 100% equity ownership by 
foreign investment for a wide range of activities. Other initiatives such as the lowering of corporate income tax, reform of investment commission and others also help to create a positive business 
environment for all investors. 
4.56.  Services, being one key contributor to Myanmar's GDP at about 37% are characterized by 
State involvement through state and enterprises. Restrictions on private sector and foreign 
participation are still prevalent. That said, we are pleased to learn that Myanmar is taking steps to 
migrate from State control to public-private partnership in the transport services sector by formulating policies in compliance with its commitments in international and regional institutions, including ASEAN. In hotel and related business, foreign direct investment with 100% foreign equity 
participation is also allowed. We encourage Myanmar to continue its efforts to liberalize trade and 
services. 
4.57.  As regards tariffs, we appreciate that Myanmar has applied ad valorem  rates to all tariff 
lines. However, we have concerns about the significant difference between the average of applied 
tariff, which is low at 5.5% and the average bound rate, which is 87.2%. Moreover, only 18.5% of tariff lines are bound. This makes the tariff regime  quite unpredictable. We encourage Myanmar to 
consider further improvements and to eliminate more "water". 
4.58.  Agriculture continues to be the key sector in  Myanmar during the review period. According 
to the latest available figures, it contributed at  30% of GDP, about 60% of employment and about 
16% of the country's total export earnings. It is encouraging to note the many liberal aspects of 
Myanmar's agricultural policies. 
4.59.  The Government does not use any domestic support measures or export subsidies. Neither 
does it provide any financial support, preferential taxation or price controls. We also appreciate 
Myanmar's opening up of the import and distribution  of agriculture imports and the export of most 
agricultural products to the private sector. 
4.60.  However, a number of agricultural products are subject to import and export license 
environment and abolition of such, or the use of au tomatic licensing instead, could facilitate trade 
flows.  WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4.61.  Secondly, there is a large gap between the average applied tariffs at 9% and the average 
bound tariffs at 110%, thus creating uncertainti es. Further liberalization efforts would benefit 
traders and consumers alike. 
4.62.  On trade facilitation, we recognize Myanmar's commitment to expedite customs clearance. 
The current work of its Customs Department on implementing a National Single Window which can 
integrate with the ASEAN single window by 2015 would greatly enhance transparency and efficiency of cross-broader trade. On 2012 on wards, Myanmar has also relaxed its license 
requirements for import and export by adopting automatic licensing for most licenses which 
shortens the process in time and by eliminating license requirements on non-selected, non-sensitive imports. We encourage Myanmar to continue broad the scope of liberalization licensing control. 
4.63.  We note that Myanmar has not notified its state-trading activities to the WTO. While 
recognizing the efforts needed to do so, we urge Myanmar to comply with its notifications obligations to increase transparency. 
NEW
 ZEALAND 
4.64.  New Zealand welcomes Myanmar's participation for the first time in the trade policy review 
process. This is taking place at an importan t stage for Myanmar's trade policy. Myanmar has 
undertaken commendable efforts to reform and advance its economy, including its trade policy 
settings, since the start of its broader reform programme in 2010. During this period, Myanmar has enjoyed enviable rates of economic growth. 
4.65.  It is clear that Myanmar has taken its regional economic integration objective seriously, and 
we look forward to working with Myanmar this year in its role as ASEAN Chair. Myanmar is a 
partner of growing economic importance for New Zealand, underpinned and supported by our common membership of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA). We 
also look forward to further strengthening this trade and investment relationship through the 
ongoing RCEP negotiations. Accordingly, New Zealand takes an active interest in Myanmar's trade and investment policy. 
4.66.  New Zealand welcomes the measures adopted by Myanmar to open its economy and to 
engage more in the global market. New Zealand is pleased to note efforts being made by Myanmar to increase the openness of its investment enviro nment. We thank Myanmar for its response to our 
question regarding its future intentions on foreign direct investment liberalization. Further, 
New Zealand was pleased to provide support for Myanmar to undertake an investment policy 
review conducted by the OECD – together with Australia, through the AANZFTA Economic Cooperation Work Programme. We welcome Myanmar's commitment to study the 
recommendations contained in the report and give consideration to implementing these, as noted 
by Union Minister of National Planning and Economic Development Dr Kan Zaw at the launch of the investment policy review report in Nay Pyi Taw on 1 March. 
4.67.  At the same time, we note that the Secretariat's report identifies a number of trade policies 
and practices that remain of concern, many of wh ich are being highlighted in Members' statements 
today. 
4.68.  New Zealand welcomes Myanmar's elimination in March 2013 of import licensing 
requirements for 166 commodities in over 1,900 HS tariff lines, representing about 35% of total 
imports. We also welcome Myanmar's intention to continue easing import licence requirements throughout 2014 and 2015, as noted in its response to our question on this. 
4.69.  Myanmar faces a number of challenges to econ omic growth in the areas of capacity and 
infrastructure. The business environment remains challenging, with difficult processes for setting up businesses, lengthy processes for claims settlement, and high capital deposits required to 
register a business. Further liberalization of th e banking sector could support these efforts. We 
encourage Myanmar to work to address these issues as it continues reform of its economy and trade policy. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4.70.  New Zealand notes that to date Myanmar has not notified the WTO of any changes or 
additions to its SPS requirements. If this is due to technical and capacity issues, we recommend that Myanmar consider availing itself of the mentoring system available through the WTO SPS Committee to assist with the development and operation of its notification procedures. 
4.71.  New Zealand recognizes that change takes time, and we are working closely in partnership 
with Myanmar to help it improve capacity in key economic sectors where New Zealand has strong expertise and comparative advantage. This includes in the agricultural sector through a dairy 
farming development project. We are also helping Myanmar strengthen its human resources 
through our scholarship programme. These and other activities will all enable Myanmar to gradually take better advantage of the opportunities offered by the multilateral trading system. 
4.72.  In conclusion, New Zealand commends the steps taken by Myanmar to reform its economy 
and reintegrate into the global economy, and we  welcome the positive trajectory of Myanmar's 
economic growth. We stand ready to help Myanmar improve its economic performance in certain key areas where we can add value. At the same time, we look forward to further constructive 
discussion of the issues that have been raised here during the course of this review. 
CHINESE
 TAIPEI 
4.73.  Since the elections in 2010, some dramatic economic reforms have been introduced by the 
new Myanmar Government, and we are seeing a rapid transition from isolation to a more open, 
market-oriented economic system. The mere fact of such a change has surprised the world; its 
speed and depth have caused widespread astonishment. Myanmar's transformation is one of the most significant events to have taken place in the last few years. We would like to congratulate 
Myanmar for such an important and positive transformation. 
4.74.  Not so surprising, in terms of trade and investment Myanmar has made progress on a 
number of fronts in the last three years as we can see from the Secretariat's report. The pegged 
exchange-rate policy was replaced by the managed floating exchange-rate policy. The new foreign 
investment law was introduced to allow FDI and encourage private sector development. The export and import law has been brought in to facilitate international trade. We also admire Myanmar for 
moving so quickly to participate in the main regional economic initiatives such as ASEAN, the 
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (t h e  R E C P ) ,  t h e  B a y  o f  B e n g a l  I n i t i a t i v e  f o r  
multi-sectoral Technical and Economic Cooper ation (the BIMSTEC), and the Greater Mekong 
Sub-region programme. 
4.75.  My delegation has already submitted several written questions to Myanmar in advance, 
relating to FDI, custom procedures, government procurement and the Special Economic Zone. In addition, we would encourage Myanmar to implement the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement, to 
update the bidding procedures for public construction projects, and to establish a website to 
provide information on the new trade-related laws and regulations, in English. In addition to these questions, we would like to hear Myanmar's views on the future of the RECP. 
4.76.  Two-way trade between the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinman and 
Matsu and Myanmar is growing steadily. According to our customs statistics, bilateral trade last year (2013) amounted to almost US$300 million, representing a growth of 26% from 2012. Of 
that figure, our exports to Myanmar were up 23%, and our imports from Myanmar were up 33% 
from 2012. Myanmar, for us, is one of the key overse as markets that we plan to focus on in this 
year and after. Myanmar is also the latest unexplo red frontier for our investors. In our view, there 
is definitely plenty of room for strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations in the future. 
4.77.  Myanmar undoubtedly has great potential for growth, with a young labour force, abundant 
natural resources, and it is in a dynamic economic region. Its virgin consumer market of some 60 million people almost attracts the interest and attention from international business arena. We 
should simply encourage Myanmar to continue with its market-opening efforts. I am convinced 
that the multilateral trading system provides huge opportunities for integration with the global value chains and Myanmar may well emerge as the next tiger in Asia. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  JAPAN 
4.78.  Japan also commends Myanmar's efforts for democratization, enhancement of the rule of 
law, national reconciliation, and various economic  reforms as explained by Dr. H.E. Pwint San, 
Deputy Minister, Ministry of Commerce, today. Th ose efforts are encouraged to continue so that 
the people of Myanmar will be able  to experience the real benefits. 
4.79.  In addition, Japan also commends that Myanmar is actively participating trade liberalization 
efforts, for example the participation in the RCEP negotiations in which Japan is also taking part 
with other partners including ASEAN members. Japan hopes that Myanmar continues its positive 
actions for trade liberalization, improving the investment climate, and thereby achieves economic growth through the expansion of trade. Japan is ready to support the serious efforts of Myanmar 
including through a number of aid for trade programs. 
4.80.  Japan highly commends that the Government of Myanmar, in particular the Ministry of 
National Planning and Economic Development, ha s achieved the improvem ent of the environment 
in the several fields of economic activities, utilizing various supports from the international 
community. We appreciate specific developments are happening including the establishment of 
such legal instrument as Foreign Investment Law and Special Economic Zone Law. On the other hand, Myanmar is still facing challenges such as implementation of laws in a predictable manner 
by the Government as a whole. Further efforts are necessary to overcome the problems and habits 
in the previous administration era.  
4.81.  In this light, Japan particularly attaches importance to supports for the improvement of the 
legal system which will provide predictability for future business activities and thereby will 
contribute to building a foundation of a future Myanmar. Japan is currently supporting, among 
others, the improvement of economic laws and building human capacities. 
4.82.  Together with legal system, infrastructure is extremely important for improving business 
environment.  
4.83.  One of the focuses of our cooperation is to assist the Thilawa Special Economic Zone. This is 
a pivotal project for creating robust employment. Our cooperation both from the public and private 
sectors is being actively implemented toward the opening in 2015. This project aims at 
establishing infrastructure of a high standard by fully utilizing Japanese technologies. It also aims at meeting international standards in environmental and social aspects. 
4.84.  Taking this opportunity, I would like to share some of the examples how Japan participates 
in improving Myanmar's business environment. In  December 2013, Japan and Myanmar signed the 
bilateral investment agreement, which is the first investment liberalization agreement prepared in the negative list for Myanmar. Furthermore, to fac ilitate regional efforts, the Fourth Mekong-Japan 
Meeting was held in February, 2014, which is a forum to encourage public and private cooperation 
and partnership for the development of the Mekong  region, where Myanmar is taking an important 
role. Such efforts will not only facilitate the investment and trade with Japan but also encourages 
the business activities with the rest of the world. 
4.85.  We hope that various useful cooperation with Japan and with other partners will contribute 
to Myanmar's economic growth under the multilateral trading system. 
4.86.  Now I would like to point out one important issue that the business faces with regard to 
import and export licensing procedures. The business circles have concerns that examinations for 
issuing such licenses are being conducted only in  Nay Pyi Taw, the capital city of Myanmar. The 
business people see this as an impediment against the smooth logistics for goods distribution. It is 
particularly important for Myanmar to address this problem in order to participate in the global 
value chain and to play a main role there. We ap preciate some improvements are taking place on 
a step by step basis. Instead of the situation wh ere only the Ministry of Commerce in Nay Pyi Taw 
accepted applications before October 2011, now the Government of Myanmar has improved the 
procedures where some of the examination is taking  place in Yangon as well. In addition, we also 
appreciate that the Ministry of Commerce of Myanmar is currently considering and has already implemented for some products the removal of ex port and import licensing requirement. Japan 
hopes that Myanmar will continue to pursue the direction of this business friendly reform not just WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  for this issue alone but also for other issues  as well. In particular, the enhancement of 
transparency on various procedures consistent with the Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures is strongly expected. 
4.87.  Since this is the first trade policy review of Myanmar, Japan congratulates Myanmar on this 
historic milestone. We really recognize that Myanmar has enormous potential and now is the 
opportunity to make it into a reality. We really hope that the Government of Myanmar will utilize this TPR as a fruitful opportunity to further enhanc e its efforts of reform to realize its development. 
EUROPEAN
 UNION 
4.88.  I am glad to be part of the first TPR of Myanmar. This meeting in itself is the reflection of 
the remarkable pace of reforms undertaken since the new Government came in power in March 2011. Myanmar was a founding Member of  the GATT and at the time a major trading 
country in particular in agriculture. After a period of isolation, it now seeks to vigorously reinsert 
itself in the international trading system, with a more diverse profile and shows a remarkable willingness to receive input from the membership at  a very early stage of its reforms. Today, in 
2014, Myanmar holds the chairmanship of the ASEAN and takes a resolute direction towards 
openness both domestically and internationally.  
4.89.  In their report, the authorities of Myanmar detail their ongoing democratic and peaceful 
transition, their implementation of economic an d social reforms so that the country can better 
benefit from its geostrategic location and comparative advantages to embark on a path of sustainable growth to benefit its people. We can only share this view and encourage the continuation of this process. In this perspective,  the part devoted to inserting the country into the 
dynamics of ASEAN and more widely into world tr ade and investments is particularly important. 
Completion of these ambitious goals will probably be conditional on many important steps that still need to be taken such as establishing a conducive and stable political and institutional framework 
and ensuring a predictable legal environment. Ma naging transparency, appropriate consultation 
with stakeholders and ensuring that growth benefi ts equally to all population groups are crucial. 
The EU stands ready to accompany Myanmar on this challenging journey of change.  
4.90.  The EU's trade with Myanmar is relatively small but the potential is clearly much bigger. The 
EU responded quickly to Myanmar's democratic transition and political reform process by 
suspending and subsequently lifting its sanctions in April 2013. As regards EU imports, until the reinstatement of the EU's s tariff preference under the "Everything But Arms" (EBA) scheme last 
July, the majority of Myanmar exports consisted of apparel (70%), followed by some fishery 
products, rice and beans. Overall Myanmar's exports to the EU in 2013 increased by 35% compared to 2012. As regards EU exports, th ey consist mainly of machinery, mechanical 
appliances (32%), and other equipment. Overal l EU exports in 2013 increased by almost 50% 
compared to 2012 reflecting the country's needs for inputs for its fast growing manufacturing industry. 
4.91.  Myanmar has only recently started opening up its economy and needs to overhaul a large 
number of its legislations. This explains that the EU had difficulties to limit its number of questions. But the EU's large number of questions is only a sign of our genuine interest and support for the 
ongoing reform process. 
4.92.  Among the most important issues raised in our advanced written questions, I would like to 
underline the need for economic operators to easily understand the conditions under which they operate. This would require in particular transparency, predictability, a responsive public 
administration and independent judicial institutions. The EU would like to express its appreciation 
to the authorities for having provided to the Members their replies before the meeting and by subject. 
4.93.  As I stated earlier, the EU provides considerable assistance to the authorities in order to 
support their ambitious objectives. Since 2013, the EU has committed more than €300 million in activities aimed at supporting, inter alia , education, health, the government's capacities, the 
private sector, peaceful transition, civil society and trade. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  AUSTRALIA 
4.94.  Australia is pleased to participate in this trade policy review and welcomes the delegation of 
the Myanmar Government to Geneva. As we are all aware, over the past two years the Myanmar Government, under the leadership of President Thein Sein, has led a series of momentous political 
and economic reforms; political reforms which are moving the country towards democracy and 
economic reforms which are integrating the country into the global economy. Australia supports this reform process.  
4.95.  Australia has a keen interest in promoting sustainable development, including through 
supporting the Myanmar Government's policy to transition the economy to an open market and participate in the multilateral trading system. Australia's development assistance is working to reduce poverty and to promote economic opportunities. Australia is the lead donor in the 
education sector. Supporting basic education will help to ensure that all of the country's people can 
be active participants in its growing economy and benefit from its new openness. 
4.96.  Australia would like to congratulate the Myanmar Government on the positive steps it has 
made to date on moving the economy from a centralised economic system to a market oriented 
economy. To facilitate international trade, the Myanmar Government successfully undertook a "managed float" of its currency in April 2012 and has embarked on reforms for a more transparent 
fiscal policy and budget process. Australia welcomes the Myanmar Government's commitment to 
financial management reform, including engagement with the World Bank, to encourage modernisation of public financial management systems and reform of the financial sector. Sound economic management, along with a stable macroeconomic environment, is important to 
promoting financial stability and certainty for investors. 
4.97.  The Myanmar Government has also taken some important first steps to encourage foreign 
investment, including its November 2012 Foreign Investment Law. Australia welcomes the Law's 
negative list approach to market access. Australia encourages the Myanmar Government to 
continue working with partners on implementation of the law. Australia also welcomes the Central Bank of Myanmar's efforts to develop a master plan for the financial sector. Foreign banks have 
the potential to play a crucial role in facilitating foreign investment into the country.  
4.98.  Consistent with its active participation as a member of ASEAN and its role as Chair of ASEAN 
this year, Australia encourages the Myanmar Government to focus on sustainable and inclusive economic development. This is also an important theme of Australia's G20 presidency this year. 
The country's strategic location means that it is set to benefit from greater regional connectivity 
and integration.  
4.99.  Australia is encouraged by the Myanmar Government's commitment to open markets and 
the multilateral trading system. Australia agrees that an open global trading system, access to 
export markets and inwards flows of foreign direct investment, are key to economic development and poverty reduction in the country.  
4.100.  We are both Parties to the Agreement estab lishing the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free 
Trade Area (AANZFTA), which entered into force in January 2010. Australia welcomes the Myanmar Government's completion of a comprehensive Investment Policy Review in conjunction with the OECD, which Australia supported through the AANZFTA Economic Cooperation Work 
Program. As a next step, Australia would encourage the Myanmar Government to implement the 
recommendations made in the Investment Policy Review report to further strengthen the country's foreign investment environment. In this regard, Australia would welcome the Myanmar 
Government's interest in seeking further technical assistance to support its investment reforms 
under the Economic Cooperation Work Program.   
4.101.  Our questions for this review reflect our interest in issues such as certainty for foreign 
investors, financial services and natural resource s. We thank the delegation for its responses to 
these questions. 
4.102.  We acknowledge that the Myanmar Government is starting from a low base and it has a 
long way to go to develop its economy to become stable, competitive, market based and fully WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  integrated into the region. But the political will is there and it deserves the full support and 
encouragement of WTO Members.   
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA 
4.103.  As the Secretariat's report points out, Myanmar has undertaken a series of major economic 
reforms since 2010 and has reintegrated itself into the global economy. We recognize that trade 
has been one of Myanmar's vigorous reform areas, which is well demonstrated by, among other efforts, the promulgation of the Export and Im port Law, the Foreign Investment Law, and the 
Foreign Exchange and Management Law. We certainly recognize the fact that Myanmar is diligently 
drafting implementing rules and regulation for th ese, and expect that Myanmar will continue its 
efforts in preparing other key legislation such as competition law, comprehensive IPR legislation and telecommunication law as planned. With such legal infrastructure ready, we believe that 
Myanmar can soon pave the way for the nation's economic take off in the coming years. 
4.104.  On the bilateral front, Korea is Myanmar's 6th largest trading partner, with the annual 
trade volume reaching US$625 million and 5th largest investor with a total stock of direct 
investment reaching US$3 billion in 2013. As noted by the Secretariat, Myanmar is known for its 
young labour force, abundant natural resources and proximity to fast-growing dynamic economic regions. Taking this opportunity, we note with pleasure that in January this year, the bilateral 
investment treaty between the two countries was initiated and we hope that this treaty will 
provide more solid mechanisms for various economic cooperation projects, through which our economic relations will further deepen and grow stronger.  
4.105.  Having said that, we would like to note a co uple of points that warrant our attention. 
4.106.  First, we understand that Myanmar's Government planned to terminate the import license 
system in the automotive industry since it is no t in line with the WTO rules. We are concerned, 
however, that it is now being delayed because My anmar's Government is undertaking an in-depth 
impact assessment of the planned termination. In this regard, we hope that this assessment does 
not hinder the necessary and intended termination of the said import license system.  
4.107.  Secondly, in Myanmar the effective rate of excise duty for cars with higher local value 
addition is significantly lower, which serves as  great disadvantage for imported cars. What is 
problematic in terms of transparency is that, information on how much local content is required for such treatment is not available to the public. We would appreciate it if Myanmar Government could 
provide more details regarding the operation of th e excise duty rebate system in the automotive 
industry.   
4.108.  Thirdly, while we recognize that Myanmar Gove rnment has been working hard on economic 
reforms, significant impediments remain to modernizing Myanmar's economy and reducing 
poverty. We hope that Myanmar will accelerate its efforts in capacity building and establishing 
improved social infrastructure.  
4.109.  The written questions we have submitted cover the new Foreign Investment Law, import 
license, and foreign exchange rate regimes. We would like to thank the Myanmar delegation for 
their answers to our questions, which we are carefully reviewing. 
4.110.  I n  c l o s i n g ,  o n c e  a g a i n  w e  w o u l d  l i k e  t o  e x press our appreciation to the delegation of 
Myanmar for their hard work in preparing for their first TPR. We hope that this first TPR will 
provide the Government of Myanmar with an oppo rtunity to feel the WTO Member States' genuine 
interests in Myanmar's trade policy and to take useful inspiration for their way forward.  
ARGENTINA 
4.111.  Mi delegación se siente complacida de participar del primer Examen de Políticas 
Comerciales de Myanmar. Por tratarse de su prim er examen, resulta un evento de gran significado 
para la evaluación de sus políticas y prácticas comerciales.  
4.112.  Agradecemos los informes preparados por el Gobierno de Myanmar y por la Secretaría, que 
nos han permitido actualizar nuestro conocimiento de las políticas y prácticas comerciales de ese WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  país. Felicitamos, asimismo, al Embajador de Australia, Excmo. Sr. Hamish McCormick, por las 
importantes contribuciones y reflexiones planteadas en su intervención como ponente, que constituyen un valioso estímulo a nuestra labor.  
4.113.  Valoramos el proceso iniciado con el establecimiento de un Gobierno civil, en marzo de 
2011, que condujo a Myanmar a un proceso de reformas económicas y sociales orientadas a 
integrarse a la comunidad internacional y reincorporarse a la economía mundial. 
4.114.  Notamos que Myanmar se encuentra en un proceso de organización y adaptación de su 
normativa comercial al marco de los Acuerdos de la OMC. 
4.115.  En este sentido, reconocemos los enormes re tos a los que se enfrenta Myanmar, entre 
ellos la necesidad de creación de capacidades técnicas, para poder emprender las reformas de sus políticas comerciales.  
4.116.  Advertimos con satisfacción que la tasa de crecimiento del PIB real ha aumentado del 
5,1% en el ejercicio 2009-2010 al 6,4% en período 2012-2013, y al 6,8% en 2013-2014. Sin embargo, aún queda camino por recorrer a fin de elevar el PIB per cápita desde los actuales 
900 dólares EE.UU. 
4.117.  Sin bien la relación comercial bilateral entre nuestros países es incipiente consideramos 
que existe potencial para su desarrollo. 
4.118.  Es este sentido, vemos con agrado las expresiones del Informe del Gobierno de Myanmar 
(WT/TPR/G/293) en cuanto a que sus medidas sanitarias y fitosanitarias se basan en normas internacionales, como por ejemplo, las normas alimentarias son tomadas del CODEX y los riesgos de sanidad animal son los reconocidos por la OIE.  
4.119.  Al respecto, valoramos que Myanmar esté haciendo todo lo posible por adaptar sus 
prescripciones sanitarias y fitosanitarias a las normas internacionales y que considere que estas últimas son esenciales para el desarrollo del sector agropecuario y del sector de alimentos. 
4.120.  Agradecemos, asimismo, la extensa respuesta dada por Myanmar a la pregunta que fue 
adelantada por escrito, relativa a las condiciones para la exportación de productos de los sectores de la agroindustria, tecnología en fármacos y medicina nuclear en el marco del Plan Nacional de 
Desarrollo Global y Nacional (2011-2012 y 2030/2031) y del proceso de liberalización de las 
importaciones emprendido por Myanmar.  
4.121.  Por último, apreciamos que Myanmar esté decidida a lograr una conclusión satisfactoria de 
las negociaciones del Programa de Doha para el Desarrollo y que, en este contexto, Myanmar haya 
expresado en su Informe que está dispuesta a consolidar un número mayor de líneas arancelarias 
siempre que se permita llegar a resultados satisfactorios para todas las partes. 
4.122.  Finalizando, y al tiempo de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de 
intercambiar elementos de juicio y consideraciones sobre la Política Comercial de la Myanmar, 
permítanos señalar una vez más la relevancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en todos sus aspectos y desear éxito a las autoridades de My anmar en este primer examen de su política 
comercial. 
CHINA 4.123.  China is pleased to attend the first review of trade policies and practices of Myanmar, 
which we believe will provide an excellent opportunity for Members to learn and understand the 
full range of Myanmar's trade regime and its impact upon and interaction with the functioning of 
the WTO multilateral trading system. 
4.124.  We note with pleasure that Myanmar has made great progress in its economic and social 
development, with GDP growth at 6.8% in year 2013 to 2014. According to Asian Development 
Bank's estimate, Myanmar is expected to sustain an annual growth rate of 7% to 8% in the coming years, which is clearly showing the dyna mics and growth potential of Myanmar. Both the 
Government and Secretariat reports highlighted the fact that this achievement should be WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  attributed to Myanmar's great efforts in transforming its economy to a market-oriented and more 
open economy. 
4.125.  Myanmar is also committed to the multilateral trading system and has actively participated 
in regional integration and cooperation. Here we would encourage Myanmar to continue the 
reforms and work to achieve its development goal. 
4.126.  China is Myanmar's largest trading partner and largest FDI investor. Given the long term 
friendship and neighbourhood between our two countries, China is always ready to support 
Myanmar's economic development through bilateral and multilateral channels. For example, we 
feel greatly honoured to offer our assistance which has facilitated participation of the Myanmar delegation in this TPR.  
4.127.  Having said that, we do have some specific concerns regarding certain aspects of 
Myanmar's trade and investment policies and practices. Among other things, we would encourage 
Myanmar to comply with the WTO rules and ensure the consistency of its FDI policies. In the latter case, we expect Myanmar Government to honour all the existing investment contracts by foreign 
investors and find satisfactory solutions to the losses incurred by investors. 
PHILIPPINES 4.128.  Let me begin by thanking Myanmar for the assistance extended to the Philippines in the 
wake of super typhoon Haiyan. This is a tangible sign of what ASEAN represents: a community 
founded on the principles of solidarity, friendship, and mutual regard for each other's well-being, a community that is committed to realizing a shared  vision of progress, prosperity, and stability. 
4.129.  As reflected in the reports for Myanmar's first trade policy review, Myanmar has pursued a 
policy of inclusiveness, openness, and moderniz ation. During the period under review, the 
Government started its reform programme focusing strongly on economic expansion and attracting foreign investment. We welcome the positive transformation that is taking place. Bilateral trade 
between the Philippines and Myanmar has sinc e increased and we continue to explore 
opportunities to maximize the economic potential of our countries.  
4.130.  On the regional front, we express support fo r Myanmar's Chairmanship of ASEAN this year. 
As Chair, Myanmar bears the crucial task of st eering ASEAN towards its goal of an "ASEAN 
Economic Community" by 2015. 
INDIA 4.131.  The trade policy of Myanmar is being reviewed  at an appropriate time when the country 
has initiated key economic reforms in the aftermath of the general elections in 2010 and the 
establishment of a civilian Government after a long  period of closed polity and economy. In this 
regard, the statement by the President of Myanmar in his inaugural speech in March 2011 is quite 
reassuring. He not only underscored the commitment of his Government for a market economy 
with minimum involvement of the Government but also acknowledged the importance of foreign investment to reduce the economic gap between the rich and poor and development gap between 
rural and urban areas. We therefore appreciate the wide ranging reforms, under the auspices of 
the Framework for Economic and Social Reforms,  since they highlight the priority of the 
Government of Myanmar to integrate the isolated economy of Myanmar into the multilateral trading system. 
4.132.  The immediate results of the economic liberalization policies undertaken by Myanmar are 
clearly visible. Despite the weak international demand, Myanmar has shown accelerated economic growth wherein the real GDP has increased from 5.1% in 2009/10 to 6.4 % in 2012 /13 and 6.8% 
in 2013/14. We are therefore very hopeful that Myanmar takes full advantage of its abundant 
natural resources, young labour force and proximity to the large markets, to shed the economic policies that it has pursued for the last 50 years in order to realize its full economic potential and 
through the model of inclusive development helps in sharing the benefits equally amongst all its 
people.  WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4.133.  India and Myanmar are natural partners, linked by geography and history and share 
historical, ethnic, cultural and religious ties. The geographical proximity of the two countries has facilitated the long standing trade relations across the land and sea routes and has helped develop and sustain cordial relations and facilitated people-to-people contact. Myanmar is in fact an 
important bridge linking India to the South East Asia and further to East Asia. While the bilateral 
trade has shown a gradual increase from US$1.15 billion in 2008/09 to US$1.50 billion in 2009/10 and to US$1.95 billion in 2012-13, it constitutes only 0.25% of India's total external trade. With 
the gradual opening up of Myanmar's economy and through different institutional mechanisms we 
are sure that the bilateral trade will see new highs. As regards FDI in Myanmar, India stands at the 10th position in Myanmar with the approved in vestment of US$273 million as of 2012. The New 
Foreign Investment Law allowing 100% FDI in some sectors is indeed making Myanmar an 
attractive destination for India's investments. The Bilateral Investment Promotion Agreement 
(BIPA), Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (D TAA) and other agreements in the pipeline are 
expected to give an impetus to the bila teral trade between India and Myanmar.   
4.134.  We understand that despite its limited institutional, technical and financial capacity 
Myanmar has taken important steps in improving it s foreign exchange and monetary policy, fiscal 
policy and has carried out structural reforms in several important sectors of its economy. We are 
confident that with further liberalization of its economy Myanmar would be able to strengthen 
trade ties with the rest of the world.   
4.135.  Finally, let me conclude by congratulating Myanmar for its efforts to open up its economy 
and wish the delegation of Myanmar a successful trade policy review. 
MALAYSIA 
4.136.  ASEAN, like Myanmar itself, is at a crossroad. It has less than two years to achieve its goal 
of an ASEAN Economic Community by the end of 2015. Despite the challenges faced, ASEAN 
leaders remain steadfast in their commitment that the aspiration of creating an Economic 
Community will be achieved. The commitment at th e highest level shows that the way forward for 
ASEAN to be a force in global trade is to tap her collective economic strengths. We are confident 
that as current Chair of ASEAN, Myanmar will work towards realizing the key deliverables identified 
for 2014. Malaysia, as the next Chair of ASEAN, will work closely with Myanmar and ASEAN to ensure economic integration continues to be deepened and at the same time promote inclusive, sustainable and equitable growth in the region.  
4.137.  We commend Myanmar on the on-going broad based reforms undertaken including the 
new investment law. The reform provides transparen cy that will help build business confidence in 
Myanmar, despite the many challenges.   
4.138.  Myanmar joined ASEAN as a Member on 23 July 1997. Since then, Myanmar has been 
exemplary in its commitment to ASEAN. Myanmar has judiciously implemented the various liberalization initiatives under the ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint. These include the 
liberalization of tariffs, services and investme nt under the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement. Myanmar 
has also remained strongly committed in the implementation of the various ASEAN FTAs.  
4.139.  For example, Myanmar has reduced duties to 0-5% on 9,498 tariff lines or 99.37%, 
effective 1 January 2010 under the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement. Besides tariffs, Myanmar 
has liberalized 88 services sub-sectors under th e 9th Package of the ASEAN Framework Agreement 
on services (AFAS). Eliminating non-tariff barriers would help Myanmar realize benefit of its openness. 
4.140.  Bilateral economic relation between Malaysia and Myanmar continue to strengthen with 
Malaysia's growing investment in Myanmar. Malaysia ranks as the 7th largest foreign investor in the country. The Malaysian Government with the private sector will continue to engage Myanmar 
in its development and to promote public–private sector partnership. These engagements and 
interactions are expected to contribute to the expansion of bilateral trade, which currently remains modest at around US$1 billion. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  NIGERIA 
4.141.  Nigeria is impressed by the level of progre ss made by the Government of Myanmar in 
recent years, in particular, the steps taken by the Government in transforming the country from a centrally-planned economy into a market driven economy that re-integrates Myanmar into the 
global economy. The real Growth was estimated at 5.9% in 2011/2012 and 6.4% in 2012 and 
2013 respectively. Myanmar's GDP per capita was around US$900 at the end of March 2012. The real growth of the economy is attributed to services that accounted for 37.5% in 2012/2013. 
4.142.  As indicated in the Secretariat report, Nigeria notes the continued efforts and 
determination by Myanmar at promoting its economic reforms through strong policy instruments. We also note the progress in trade liberalization, particularly, efforts, being made towards poverty 
reduction among their citizens. We, therefore, urge Myanmar to continue with the investment 
liberalization in order to improve the business envi ronment, develop private sector and attract FDI.  
4.143.  As pointed out in the Secretariat report, agriculture is one of the main sectors of 
Myanmar's economy with its contribution to GD P around 30.5% in 2012/2013 and accounting for 
around 61.2% of employment in 2010/2011. However, Myanmar is faced with some challenges. 
For instance, labour productivity in agriculture is less than one third of the level in the rest of the economy as a result of high labour and low capital structure of the sector with small farms and few 
machines. In addition, the farmers in Myanmar suffer from lack of agricultural credit mainly due to 
the lack of national savings that could be channelled to them, inadequate funding for research and low productivity.   
4.144.  As acknowledged in the same report that, in spite of Myanmar's structural changes through 
the introduction of significant macroeconomic polici es, measures to open up the economy, revision 
of the trade and trade-related legislation among others, reforms to favour trade and investment that include private sector development, and ra ising agricultural productivity, export tax and 
income, Myanmar still faces both social and economic challenges. It would be interesting if 
Myanmar could elaborate on how these issues could be addressed. My delegation would like to call 
on the developed countries and development partners to assist Myanmar through increased 
technical assistance to enable them address the challenges facing them.  
4.145.  In conclusion, it is my delegation's desire that after this first trade policy review, Myanmar 
would take positive and proactive means of addressing the challenges facing the country with the support of the Members.  
VIET
 NAM 
4.146.  Being an original Member of the WTO but isolated from a large part of the global economy 
for many years, however, with substantial reforms in every field of the country since 2010, 
Myanmar has been embarking a new journey to joint regional and international community. 
4.147.  As Myanmar has large potential for growth, with a young labour force, abundant natural 
resources, together with a series of reforms in its macroeconomic policies, we strongly believe that 
Myanmar will become a significant trade partner and one of the most attractive destination for 
international investors. 
4.148.  With regards to the bilateral cooperation be tween Viet Nam and Myanmar, from 1994, the 
two countries have implemented various bilateral agreements in trade, investment, tourism and 
various other cooperation. We are happy to witness the strongly increase day by day the two way 
trade between the two countries, from less than US$100 million in 2009 to more than US$200 million in 2012. A number of investors from Viet Nam business community are looking to 
the opportunity to come to Myanmar. 
4.149.  Viet Nam and Myanmar are potential partners in ASEAN and working towards the 
establishment of the ASEAN Community by 2015. While remaining committed to the multilateral 
trading system of the WTO, we also support each other in various regional initiatives promoting 
trade and investment, bringing prosperity to our nations. Viet Nam welcomes the forthcoming active efforts of Myanmar for the success of DDA and strengthen the central role of the multilateral trading system in the global economy. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  NEPAL 
4.150.  This trade policy review conveys the message  of Myanmar's strong faith and commitment 
to rule-based multilateral trading system. The reports produced by Myanmar and the WTO Secretariat inform us that despite facing challenges and socio-economic constraints, Myanmar is 
moving towards the path of economic moderniz ation and reforms. In this regard, reforms 
undertaken in recent times especially since 2010, by the Government of Myanmar are impressive and moving towards meeting its overarching goal of "fostering inclusive broad-based growth and 
poverty reduction". However, it is equally significant to note that there still remain significant 
impediments in the process of modernizing Myan mar's economy. As an LDC, Myanmar faces the 
lack of capacity and infrastructure to expedite its socio-economic development. 
4.151.  The reports also mention that reforms that are being undertaken by Myanmar though are 
in line with the spirit and principles of WTO,  need to be continued and further deepened to 
integrate it into the world trading system effectively. As an LDC, it is not an easy task for embracing enormous economic reforms in a short span of time and within the limited capacity and 
resources. It may take some time and require enhanced level of technical and financial assistance 
to Myanmar from the international community, especially from those Members who are in better positions in the region.   
4.152.  Nepal enjoys good bi-lateral relationship with Myanmar and is eager to extend its trade 
relations with Myanmar in the days to come under the broader framework of Bay of Bangal Initiatives for Multi Sectoral Trade and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), a regional trade arrangement, comprising countries from South and East Asia, of which both Nepal and Myanmar 
are party. 
4.153.  Finally, we encourage Myanmar to move ahead continuously in the path of economic 
reforms and economic modernization that help achieve its overarching goal of poverty reduction 
and enhancing the quality of life of its people. We also urge the international community to extend 
continuous support to Myanmar and join hands in its efforts to accelerate the pace of economic development. As pointed out in the TPR report , we underscore the need of the provision of 
technical and capacity building assistance to Myanmar that facilitates it to implement its 
commitments expeditiously that was made while  obtaining the then GATT and later on WTO 
membership.  
NORWAY 
4.154.  As commented upon in the reports, the reforms that have taken place since 2010 have 
made it possible for Myanmar to gradually reintegrate into the global economy. Parallel to the economic reforms, there have also been a number of  political reforms, and the transition that is 
taking place in Myanmar towards democracy is impressive, hereunder the establishment of a new 
Parliament.  
4.155.  The achievements made so far in the peace process are encouraging. We are witnessing 
the greatest opportunity in Myanmar since independen ce to end the internal conflicts, and build an 
inclusive and peaceful country. Norway is commi tted to doing our utmost to support Myanmar in 
this process, and to lead the effort to galvanizing international support.  
4.156.  Norway is also committed to further strengthening and increasing its development 
cooperation with Myanmar. Supporting capacity  building, particularly in the Government 
administration, is the thrust of this cooperation, particularly in areas where Norway has special competence and Myanmar has expressed particular interest.  
4.157.  Other areas of cooperation between our two Governments are natural resource 
management, energy, climate and environmental conservation. Myanmar has an extraordinary potential to develop its vast natural resources for the benefit of the population and in a sustainable 
manner.  
4.158.  A Memorandum of Understanding between the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy 
Directorate (NVE) and the Union Ministry of Electric Power was recently signed, agreeing on cooperation and sharing of experience related to hydropower development.  WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  4.159.  Norway is impressed by Myanmar's successful  ASEAN-Chairmanship thus far. We place 
great emphasis on our relationship with ASEAN , which we have taken steps to strengthen.  
4.160.  Norway appreciates Myanmar's work to encourage foreign investments and the country's 
efforts to create a level playing field for national and foreign investors. The one-stop-service and 
non-discriminatory treatment of investors are important elements in attracting foreign 
investments. Norwegian companies are interested in investing in Myanmar. Telenor's establishment is a prime example of Norwegia n business entering Myanmar, creating new 
opportunities for the people of Myanmar as well as  for Norway. Predictability and legal frameworks 
are important for international companies to invest.  
4.161.  Norway attaches great importance to mariti me services in the WTO. We note that 
Myanmar aims to develop its maritime transport infrastructure in light of its strategic location. We 
also note that Myanmar is implementing commitments in this sector in the ASEAN context in order 
to develop an integrated and competitive ASEAN Maritime transport. We are pleased to see that work is ongoing to prepare the necessary rules and re gulations in this sector and in particular that 
the preparation of the National Integrated Transport Master Plan is progressing well. 
4.162.  Trade between Myanmar and Norway is still very limited, but hopefully we will see an 
increase in the years to come. Through Norway 's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), 
Myanmar has full duty- and quota-free market access into Norway for all their goods.  
4.163.  Norway is pleased that Myanmar and the EFTA  States were able to establish a Joint 
Declaration on Cooperation in June last year. This should provide a good platform for furthering our economic dialogue. 
BRAZIL 
4.164.  It is a matter of great satisfaction for Brazil to participate in the first Myanmar TPR. The 
relations between our countries have experienced a very discernible and positive growth over the 
past few years and we are convinced that there is still room for further improvement.  
4.165.  Despite the impact of the 2008 Economic Crisis , the economy of Myanmar has registered a 
positive growth in the past few years. From 2011 to 2013, the country grew at an average of 
5.8%, which is quite significant. 
4.166.  The recent political, economic and financial reforms in Myanmar promoted international 
openness, improved the business environment an d fostered innovation and entrepreneurship. 
Although Myanmar is still suffering from lack of capacity and infrastructure problems, the GDP per 
capita increased by 53.3% from 2009 to 2012 and inflation has remained relatively stable, 
averaging 4.4% from 2009 to 2012. 
4.167.  The recent reforms in the foreign exchange regime, in the import and export licensing 
regime and in the tax regime, as well as the elaboration of a new Foreign Investment Law, 
demonstrate Myanmar's persistent effort to reintegrate into the international community and open its economy. 
4.168.  It is equally important to highlight not only Myanmar's important regional integration and 
cooperation with ASEAN's member States and its Dialogue Partners, but also the effort to look beyond its Asian neighbours in its endeavour to develop trade and investment ties. In February 2012, Myanmar signed a Memorandum of Understanding to Establish a Mechanism for 
Public Consultations with Brazil and more recently , in July 2013, both countries signed a Technical 
Cooperation Agreement. 
4.169.  The trade flow between Brazil and Myanmar has tripled since 2003. When analysing the 
most recent period, the exchange of goods between the two countries increased 45.4%, from 
2009 to 2013. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement. Bilateral trade is below its potential and can be further expanded, both in terms of volume and of diversification. Myanmar is 
certainly a country with great economic potential, abundant labour force, natural resources and 
privileged geographic location. Brazil recognizes real investment and collaboration opportunities in WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  the energy, mineral resources and infrastructure sectors, among several others, which could 
contribute to Myanmar's goal to foster inclusive growth and poverty reduction. 
4.170.  I would like now to refer to the Myanmar import procedures and customs valuation. In this 
respect, Brazil would like to ask the Delegation of Myanmar if the country intends to extend its 
reform of the non-automatic license regime, started in 2012, and enlarge the list of 166 products 
subject to automatic import license regime, as well as if Myanmar plans future actions to facilitate the entry of goods into its territory.  
4.171.  I would like to conclude by reiterating that Brazil stands ready to further enhance its 
cooperation and trade with the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. 
THE
 RUSSIAN  FEDERATION 
4.172.  Firstly, we would like to give a positive overall assessment of the economic policies of 
Myanmar, including its trade and investment components. Special emphasis goes to the current 
economic reforms aiming at modernization and integration of Myanmar into the world economy. The official course towards liberalization has already proved its effectiveness though the reforms 
being implemented face obvious hurdles from economic sanctions which are still partly in force 
against Myanmar.  
4.173.  Russia attaches much importance and attention to the trade regime of Myanmar and 
continuous efforts of its authorities to be consistent with the core principles of the multilateral 
trade system such as transparency, accountability and non-discrimination.  
4.174.  Nevertheless, Russia has some concerns with respect to the few following issues:  
1. Exclusion of a number of significant services sectors such as retail and leasing from the 
 coverage and protection of the Myanmar's Foreign Investment Law of 2012 provides for the 
 possibility to introduce discriminatory measures for foreign investors.  
2. Burdensome expertise requirements applied to  services suppliers within the licensing 
 procedures hamper seriously the foreign companies' activities in Myanmar including those 
 from Russia, particularly in the sectors related to mining. 
3. The practice of applying scientifically unjusti fied requirements of environmental impact 
 assessments of projects in mining and some other sectors requires close attention of the 
 Myanmar’s authorities as causing numerous complaints from foreign investors. 
4. Russian business also indicates on complicated and unreasonably protracted licensing 
 procedures which, we believe, are inconsistent with the Myanmar's obligations under the 
 Article VI of the GATS. 
4.175.  The Russian Delegation would appreciate further clarifications and comments from the 
Myanmar side on the concerns raised above. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF  MYANMAR AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS 
5.1.  As my opening statement on Tuesday was rather lengthy, and all Members' written questions 
were answered one week before this meeting, my reply today will be relatively short.   
5.2.  Prior to this meeting, my delegation received roughly 200 written questions, covering a wide 
range of policies, including: transparency, particularly notifications to the WTO; regional trade 
agreements; the new Foreign Investment Law; tariff and non-tariff measures, especially import/export licensing and prohibitions; taxation; state-owned economic enterprises; intellectual 
property rights; and services. 
5.3.  As our written answers have already been post ed on Members' website, I shall confine my 
attention this morning to a brief overview of some of these answers, paraphrasing a few of those that seem to be most important to Members, ju dging from the number of questions posed. At the 
same time, I shall respond to the main additional  points made by Members and the Discussant in 
the first session of this TPRB Meeting on Tuesday morning.  
5.4.  My delegation’s reply is organized along the lines of three out of the four broad themes 
proposed by you, Chairman, namely: (1) economic environment; (2) trade policy regime; and 
(3) trade policies and practices by measure, as well as technical assistance needs. 
ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT  
5.5.  During the past two years, Myanmar has implemented key macroeconomic and related 
financial reforms with the assistance of international financial institutions, including the IMF, World Bank and ADB. These reforms include: adoption of a managed floating exchange rate regime, 
establishment of a functional foreign exchange market, removal of exchange restrictions, creation 
of an autonomous central bank, and the beginning of  the process of liberalizing bank lending. As a 
result, Myanmar has already achieved the macroeconomic stability that forms the basis for its economic take-off. Consequently, the Government of Myanmar is now focusing increasingly on 
structural reforms that will enable Myanmar to achieve sustained, strong, and inclusive growth 
accompanied by poverty reduction.   
TRADE POLICY REGIME  
Transparency 
5.6.  The Discussant together with many Members emphasized the importance of transparency 
concerning Myanmar's trade policies. The Governme nt of Myanmar recognizes that transparency 
plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency of  markets, reducing the cost of doing business, 
enhancing public accountability, combating corruption and facilitating evidence-based 
policy-making. As this review has demonstrated, transparency also contributes to better understanding by WTO Members of Myanmar's tr ade policies. Accordingly, the Government 
attaches great importance to the institutionalization of transparency. Of particular interest to 
Members were Myanmar's notifications to the WTO. As I mentioned in my opening statement on Tuesday, in order to enhance transparency and try to make up for Myanmar's lack of notifications, 
we opted for the alternative timelines for the submission of advance written questions and 
answers. I trust that our written answers together  with the reports prepared by the Secretariat 
and the Government of Myanmar have thrown considerable light on the nature and objectives of our trade and trade-related policies, and thereby contributed to Members' understanding (or 
clearing up their misunderstanding) of these policies.   
5.7.  Needless to say, this Trade Policy Review is not a perfect substitute for these notifications. 
Therefore, after this review is completed, the Go vernment of Myanmar intends to turn its attention 
to notifying these as well as other measures to the WTO as soon as possible, insofar as its limited 
capacity permits. In accordance with the wishes  expressed by Members during this review, we 
shall attach priority to notifications in connection with SPS, state-trading and state-owned 
economic enterprises, among others. The Government of Myanmar would be very grateful for any 
technical assistance (TA) from the WTO in providing these and other outstanding notifications. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  5.8.  For Members' information, the Ministry of Commerce is now discussing with USAID and the 
World Bank the establishment of National Trade Re pository (Trade Portal) where all trade related 
information, laws, rules and regulations will be available in both Myanmar and English language. 
New Foreign Investment Law 
5.9.  Judging from the large number of Members qu estions, one of the policy areas of most 
interest involves Myanmar's foreign investment re gime. Attracting foreign direct investment and 
the associated technology and management know-how is a primary objective of Government 
policy. Accordingly, one of the most important tr ade-related reforms, apart from those that have 
achieved macroeconomic stability, is the new, mu ch more liberal Foreign Investment Law (FIL). 
The new FIL is aimed at ensuring a stable and predictable environment for foreign investment. One of its main features is the replacement of th e previous "positive list" with a "negative list". 
Although the new FIL is a considerable improvem ent on the previous law, given the haste with 
which it was drafted, owing to its urgency and especially the absence of technical assistance, several flaws have become apparent. Hence, wi th the benefit of assistance from several 
international organizations, including the OECD (notably recommendations in its Investment Policy 
Review) and International Finance Corporation, the Government of Myanmar is now in the process of modifying both the FIL and Myanmar Citizens Investment Law (MCIL). Among the immediate 
actions, it is proposed that three notifications that concerning the FIL will be released shortly. 
These three notifications would: (1) reduce the ac tivities on the "negative" list from 21 to 11, 
thereby reducing the scope for discretion; (2) clarify tax incentives; and (3) clarify the circumstance in which environmental impact assessments would be required.  
5.10.  As a result of the emergence of several ambiguities in the New FIL and New MCIL, the 
Government of Myanmar is now actively working with the assistance of international experts to merge these two laws into a single coherent investment law that will address the shortcomings of 
the two existing laws. Accordingly, matters concerning MFN and national treatment, expropriation 
with compensation at fair market value, transparency, the alleged discretionary authority of the Myanmar Investment Commission, and dispute settlement are under consideration. The aim is to 
submit the unified law to Parliament at the end of 2014. Procedures under the unified law will be 
much simpler and more streamlined and should further improve the business climate. 
Regional Trade Agreements 5.11.  Under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Pa rtnership, negotiations are been conducted 
in phased. Attention is been focused initially on core issues identified in the Guiding Principles. 
These issues include: trade in goods, trade in services, investment, intellectual property, competition, and economic and technical cooperation. The existing target date for completion of 
the negotiations on trade in goods, trade in se rvices and investment is the end of 2015. Myanmar 
as a member country of the ASEAN is adhering to this process. 
TRADE POLICIES AND PRACTICES BY MEASURE 
Tariffs 
5.12.  Several Members remarked on the lack of tariff bindings. Even though less than 20% of 
tariffs are bound and the average of bound rates greatly exceeds average applied MFN rates, the 
latter has hardly changed since 1996. Furthermore, ta riff protection in Myanmar is relatively low 
by developing country and especially least-developed country standards much lower (and less 
dispersed) even than in most ASEAN countries. In addition, all applied MFN tariffs rates are ad valorem , thereby imparting a high degree of transparency to the tariff, and Myanmar does not 
impose any tariff rate quotas. Nonetheless, Myanmar is willing to consider binding more of its tariff 
lines, provided mutually satisfactory results can be achieved in the DDA negotiations. As regards 
the 32 applied MFN tariff rates that, according to  the Secretariat, exceed bound rates, while 
attending this TPRB meeting, my delegation has taken the opportunity to sit down with the 
Secretariat to examine these discrepancies. As a resu lt of this consultation, the Secretariat is now 
reassessing these alleged discrepancies. In the ev ent that there are any breaches in Myanmar's 
tariff bindings, the Government of Myanmar is committe d to rectifying them as soon as possible.   WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  Import and Export Licensing 
5.13.  Many Members inquired about Myanmar's impo rt and export licensing regime and the 
Government's plans to further liberalize this regime. With respect to import licensing, following the replacement of former non-automatic import license regime with a new automatic regime in 
June 2012, licensing requirements were further eased in March 2013. This latest easing involved 
the elimination licensing for 166 commodities covering over 1,900 HS tariff lines and representing about 35% of total import. The intent is to gradually phase out import licensing through a series of 
announcements in 2014 and 2015 that would each re present about 10% and 15% of total imports. 
The Government also intends to liberalize export licensing so as to confine it to a few commodities on grounds of national food security and emergency needs.  
5.14.  In respect of imports of automobiles and part s, an automatic licensing system has been 
implemented on a non-discriminatory basis since June 2012. It is not envisaged to change this 
practice in the foreseeable future. 
5.15.  Whereas prior to October 2011, import/export licenses were issued by the Ministry of 
Commerce only in Nay Pyi Taw, since then licenses have also been issued in Yangon and all border 
check points. 
Internal Tax Reform 
5.16.  Several Members inquired about Myanmar's commercial tax, which is a hybrid of VAT and 
excises. With the benefit of technical assistance from international institutions, the Government of Myanmar aims to reform the existing commercial tax so as to bring it into line with international best practices concerning internal consumption taxes. This will involve converting the commercial 
tax into a broadly-based VAT on goods and services supplemented by a special commodities tax on 
excisable products on selected goods and services.   
CONCLUDING REMARKS 
5.17.  Finally, let me reply to Members' questions concerning the Doha Development Agenda 
(DDA). Given the high importance Myanmar attaches to the multilateral trading system, it welcomes the progress made recently in Bali. In connection with trade facilitation, Myanmar is now 
drafting an Implementation Plan consistent with the WTO's new rules agreed in Bali, thanks to TA 
provided by the UNCTAD. At the same time, Myan mar is committed to working together with all 
WTO Members to contribute to a successful conclusion of the DDA negotiations. In this context, Myanmar is willing to, inter alia , improve its commitments under the GATS as well as bind more of 
its tariff lines, provided mutually satisfactory results can be achieved in these negotiations.  
DISCUSSANT 5.18.  Thank you for the opportunity to make some brief remarks at the conclusion of this review. 
I believe that the discussion on our first day wa s very useful, and the interest and engagement 
shown by Members was equalled by the constructive approach taken by the Myanmar delegation.  
5.19.  On the first day, I welcomed the remarkable  progress made by Myanmar in its economic 
reform program. I heard the same message from all Members, clearly underlining the support of 
the Membership for the Government's reform program. I also identified four broad themes where welcome progress had already been made, and where I believed we could focus our discussions on further reform: transparency; simplifying and streamlining the trade and economic policy 
framework; improving the business climate; and Ai d for Trade. I believe that our discussions on 
Tuesday demonstrated a high degree of interest in  these issues from Members. Building on this, I 
would like to make some brief observations about the views provided by Members in our 
discussion on the first day. 
5.20.  Our discussion highlighted the positive impact of openness and integration for Myanmar. 
Global and regional integration has a clear and central place in Myanmar's development strategy. 
The rapid shift from isolation to openness has led to results, which were welcomed by Members in 
their statements. The positive impact of Myanma r's experience in moving from isolation to 
integration is, I believe, a fitting reminder to th e whole Membership of the benefits for growth, WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  development and poverty reduction when Members pu rsue a policy of openness, and do their best 
to facilitate trade and investment. This review has been an excellent reminder, if ever we needed one, that the logic underpinning the WTO remains highly relevant for Members' development efforts.  
5.21.  Members also highlighted the great potential for trade to play an even stronger role in 
growing the Myanmar economy. I believe that the many suggestions made by Members for 
achieving this are valuable. Without claiming to offer an exhaustive list, some of these included: 
further simplifying customs procedures, including through implementation of the Agreement on 
Trade Facilitation; further streamlining export and import license requirements; simplifying and reducing tariffs, including to ensure WTO-consistency; ensuring technical standards and regulations meet international best practice; protecting intellectual property rights; and 
implementing reforms which will contribute to  achievement of the ASEAN Economic Community. 
The wide range of views provided by Members on sp ecific sectors also provides a wealth of input 
from the Membership, and I encourage the Government of Myanmar to review this carefully.  
5.22.  Investment policy matters were clearly of very high interest to a wide range of Members in 
our discussion, mirroring the interest demonstrated in  written questions. This is an area where the 
Government of Myanmar has demonstrated its will to do more, and I particularly appreciated His 
Excellency U Pwint San's outline of progress achieved to date, lessons learned, and plans for 
further reform.  
5.23.  As a transparency exercise, I have been impressed by the frank and constructive approach 
taken by the Myanmar delegation and by Deputy Mi nister San personally. You have been engaged, 
you have endeavoured to address Members' concerns and questions in an honest way, and you 
have been notably frank about the successes and failures of your efforts. I believe this serves as a model for effective participation in a Trade Policy Review. On that note, I congratulate you warmly 
on your participation in this first Trade Policy Review. We will all look forward to your second 
review. 
EUROPEAN
 UNION 
5.24.  The European Union would like to thank Myanmar for its very comprehensive and 
satisfactory replies. The exchange and discussion on Tuesday was very useful, the EU learnt a lot from the interventions of the delegation of My anmar, the Discussant, the questions from other 
Members and also Myanmar's replies and today's intervention. 
5.25.  I t  i s  i n  t h e  l i g h t  o f  t h e  n e w  i n f o r m a t i o n  o f  s u c h  e x c h a n g e  t h a t  w e  h a v e  p r e p a r e d  t w o  
follow-up questions that we have submitted already in writing to the Secretariat. These concern the new Trade Facilitation Master Plan that is und er drafting with the technical assistance of ADB 
and an inclusive consultation process in the drafting of economic and trade laws and policies 
including international traders and investors. 
5.26.  The EU interest has to be seen against the ba ckdrop of the great importance we attach to 
transparency and to coordination of aid to majo r elements that have been highlighted by the 
Discussant and the Members on the first day. 
5.27.  In the same vein, the EU would like to underlin e that our questions come as a reflexion of 
our genuine interest and support in the ongoing refo rm process which, as all of us have concord on 
the first day and today, is very ambitious and commendable. 
5.28.  Let me reiterate our appreciation for this TPR which we hope has been a useful exercise for 
Myanmar. 
5.29.  Finally, we may suggest Myanmar might wish to consider together with the Secretariat 
examining the possibility of a follow-up seminar to  this TPR. The EU would like to congratulate 
Myanmar for a successful performance in this challenging exercise. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  JAPAN 
5.30.  Japan expresses its sincere appreciation for th e efforts made by the Myanmar delegation to 
provide us with the informative oral explanations regarding our concerns. 
5.31.  I would like to extend our appreciation as well for the adoption of the alternative timeframe 
to increase transparency and enable us to read the written answers to our questions carefully. 
5.32.  Japan has submitted one follow-up question in a written format concerning the conditions of 
competition between state-owned banks and private banks in the financial service sector. 
5.33.  We are looking forward to receiving an answer to the question in due course.  
UNITED  STATES 
5.34.  The United States appreciates Dr San' st atement this morning and the delegation's 
constructive and active participation in this TPR. This first TPR is a milestone and an important 
one. 
5.35.  The United States takes note of the Chair's request for a three months reply period and in 
light of these circumstances we can go along with that. 
5.36.  The United States has one follow-up question which we submitted to the Secretariat and we 
view it more as an administrative issue rather than a question and, in that way, we hope that it will not take three months for a reply. There was a response to one of our questions on PPD 
regulations and quarantine restrictions that were  referenced "attached import procedures" but we 
did not find the attachment and we would just ask for clarification of where such import procedures can be found. 
MYANMAR 
5.37.  First of all, thank you very much for the very supportive statements and the follow-up 
questions. The questions will be replied as soon as possible by our ministries and the supportive 
technical assistance of our agencies.  
5.38.  Thank you for your patience and for attending this second day of the first trade policy 
review of Myanmar. I hope we will walk togeth er under the WTO regimes and we will implement 
the multilateral trading system according to the WTO. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
6.1.  This first trade policy review of Myanmar has provided an excellent opportunity to improve 
our understanding of Myanmar's trade and invest ment policies. I would like to sincerely thank 
Dr. Pwint San, Deputy Minister of Commerce, Ambassador Maung Wai, Permanent Representative 
of Myanmar to the WTO, and the whole of the Myanmar delegation, for their open, frank, and 
constructive engagement throughout this exercise. I would also like to thank Ambassador Hamish McCormick, Permanent Representative of Australia to the WTO, for his 
insightful interventions as discussant. Myanmar's written answers to around 200 advance written 
questions have been well appreciated by Member s and we look forward to its replies to the 
additional questions, no later than three months after this meeting. 
6.2.  Myanmar has undergone tremendous change in the last few years. Members strongly 
welcomed Myanmar's political and economic re-orientation, allowing the country – after decades of 
isolation – to seriously begin the path of re-integrating into the global economy, thereby putting itself on a much more promising development trajectory. With respect to some key reforms 
already undertaken in the past three years, aiming  to transform its previously centrally planned 
economy to a market economy, Members praised Myanmar for: its macroeconomic reforms, not least its reforms of the exchange rate regime ; the adoption and revision of a number of 
trade-related legislation, such as the enactment of the new foreign investment law in 2012; and its 
steps towards trade liberalization such as the removal of non-automatic import licensing requirements on a number of commodities and elimination of export taxes on various commodities. Members noted that this reorientation has already born fruit, illustrated by, 
inter alia,  higher growth rates and increased foreign investment, and strongly encouraged 
Myanmar to continue on this new reform path that it has laid out for itself.  
6.3.  Nonetheless, Members also recognised that Myanmar still had a long way to go. Many more 
reforms were needed, some of which Myanmar alread y is envisaging in the near future, such as: 
the planned enactment of new competition policy and consumer protection laws; work towards new legislation on patents, copyrights, trademarks, an d industrial designs, as well as discussion on 
the creation of a single national intellectual property office and a specialized court; a revision of 
the foreign investment law including a reduction of the number of restricted sectors. Beyond welcoming these, Members called for further opening-up, streamlining and simplification of trade and related policies and procedures. Members also encouraged that Myanmar would give 
transparency a central role in its ongoing reform efforts. Such actions would help Myanmar 
establish a stronger foundation for a market economy by improving public accountability, enhancing the rule of law, reducing corruption, and providing traders with information they need 
to do business and connect to global supply chains.  
6.4.  Members commended Myanmar for all the efforts to participate in its first TPR, as a sign of its 
renewed commitment to the WTO and the princi ple of transparency. Members appreciated 
Myanmar's clearly expressed commitment to the multilateral trading system, as well as to the 
conclusion of the DDA, and encouraged Myanmar to increase both its participation in WTO meetings and its attention to WTO obligations, including notifications. With respect to regional agreements, Members noted that Myanmar had actively participated in regional integration and 
cooperation initiatives. As a member of the ASEAN, and through ASEAN's relationship with its 
neighbouring countries, Myanmar was increasingly becoming integrated with its regional trading 
partners. Some Members looked forward to further progress in achieving the targets of the ASEAN 
Economic Community under Myanmar' s ASEAN Chairmanship this year. 
6.5.  Other areas for potential improvements raised by Members during the review included the 
following. We have taken due note of the comments provided today by Deputy Minister Pwint San 
in this regard. 
1. Foreign investment and business environment:  Members were pleased to see Myanmar's 
efforts to improve its business environment for foreign investors, and called for further efforts for its improvement. Members encouraged Myanmar to further open up its investment regime 
by reducing the number of prohibited or restrict ed sectors, and to make further progress in 
areas such as investor protection, contract enforcement, and facilitate business start-ups. Members also stressed that proper dissemination of information regarding various new draft 
legislation and trade- and investment-related laws and regulations on-line, and appropriate 
consultation with stakeholders before introducing new policies and measures, are essential for WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  predictability for investors, as well as traders. Among other things, some Members sought 
more information about Myanmar's plans to establish Special Economic Zones and the details of any investment incentives and privileges for investors.  
2. Customs procedures, customs valuation and trade facilitation:  Members welcomed 
Myanmar's initiatives to improve trade facilitation , including efforts to adopt a national single 
window. Some Members encouraged Myanmar to implement the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement. Similarly, a large number of Members underlined the need of further reforms to 
the still rather burdensome import and export licensing regime, both horizontally and for 
certain sectors such as automobiles. 
3. Tariffs and other taxes : Although Members acknowledged Myanmar's relatively low average 
applied MFN tariff, many Members were concerned about the significant difference between 
the average applied MFN tariff and the average boun d rate. The fact that less than one fifth of 
the tariff lines are bound also gives the authorities considerable scope to raise tariffs, thereby making the tariff quite unpredictable. Members en couraged Myanmar to address this as well as 
to consider simplification of tariffs including the large number of nuisance duties. Members also 
encouraged Myanmar to address existing differen tial tax rates between domestically produced 
goods and imports in domestic taxes, and called for further transparency of the tax regime.  
4. State-owned economic enterprises (SEEs) and state involvement in the economy: 
While noting past progress in privatization, Members encouraged Myanmar to further proceed 
with privatizing SEEs, which still were dominant in a number of sectors, as well as to ensure that they operate on the basis of market conditions. Members noted that Myanmar had not 
notified to the WTO its state trading activities, and urged Myanmar to submit notifications for 
transparency.  
5. Agriculture and SPS: Members were encouraged by the fact that Myanmar did not resort to 
domestic support measures or export subsidies. Nonetheless, given the importance of 
agriculture for effective poverty reduction, Members noted its low labour productivity and a lack of credit extended to agriculture. Some Members considered that increased openness to 
foreign investment in agriculture could help spur innovation. On SPS and standards, some 
Members expressed concerns about the period given for comments when new standards are being introduced in Myanmar while appreciating Myanmar's efforts to use international standards. 
6. Services : Members welcomed Myanmar's moves to open up a number of its services sectors, 
including the recent issuing of telecommunication licences to foreign companies, promoting public-private partnership in transport, allowing 100% foreign equity participation in hotel and 
related businesses, and the central bank's efforts to develop a master plan for the financial 
sector. Members encouraged Myanmar to continue these efforts to boost competitiveness of services through further opening up of the fore ign investment regime and improvement of the 
regulatory environment and business climate.  
6.6.  Members not only acknowledged Myanmar's capacity constraints as a least developed 
country, but also identified numerous trade-related technical assistance  needs. A number of 
Members expressed their readiness to provide capacity building, including in intellectual property, 
transparency and notifications, electricity (hydro power) etc. Many Members also considered that 
the needs could be responded to by the WTO technical assistance in conjunction with the Enhanced Integrated Framework Process, including through a follow-up workshop in Myanmar on 
this review. A number of Members supported Myanmar's expressed ambitions to ensure social 
justice and environmental protection as it develops. In this context, Members also welcomed Myanmar's initiative in promoting transparency in extractive industries. In mining, as well as in 
forestry, Members encouraged Myanmar's efforts to promote environmentally sustainable 
production. WT/TPR/M/293 • Tonga 
 
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  6.7.  The participation of a sizeable number of delegations in this meeting and the large number of 
questions posed during this trade policy review indicated the clear importance of Myanmar as a trading partner for WTO Members. I hope, therefore, that this review will be of use for Myanmar to promote active participation in the multilateral trading system so that it will continue to shape its 
trade policies accordingly, both for its own benefit as well as for the benefit of all those who are 
part of the system. As Members acknowledged, wh ereas the country's challenges are formidable, 
Myanmar's abundance of natural resources, favourable geographical location and young population 
all provide enormous potential for future growth and development. But it will be equally important 
for Myanmar to intensify further its internal reforms, advance its liberalization of trade and investment, and increase transparency, in order to best harness these tremendous opportunities. In closing, therefore, I would like to thank the delegation of Myanmar, all the other delegations, 
the discussant and the Secretariat for this very successful first review of trade policies of 
Myanmar. 
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