Dependence on imported manufactures. Profile Burma's economy is agriculture-based and functions mainly on a cash and barter system. Its key industries are controlled by military-run state enterprises. Every aspect of economic life is permeated by a black market, on which prices are rocketing - a reaction to official price controls. The recent boom in trade with China has turned less developed Upper Burma into a thriving business center.
Few plans exist for the manufacturing sector, however, and dependence on imports continues.