Myanmar-Japan Joint Initiative (MIJI), a forum for promoting investment and trade organized by the two governments, established a working group focusing on construction business. The group, attended by both public and private sectors from the two countries, will discuss on issues such as legislation of construction related laws and regulations, standards of business licensing and import/export of materials in order to improve business climate in Myanmar.

The first meeting of MIJI was held in Nay Pyi Taw, capital of Myanmar in March 2013, under the co-chairs of Minister Kan Zaw of National Planning and the Economic Development of Myanmar, and Japanese Ambassador Mikio Numata and with attendance of other organizations including Japan International Cooperation Agency and Japan External Trade Organization.

Under the agreement made at the third meeting in November on establishment of four working groups, the first meeting focusing on the construction field was held on December 3 in Nay Pyi Taw. It is said that the legislation system for construction business has not been well developed in Myanmar. It is considered necessary to establish laws and restrictions as well as business licensing standards for foreign construction contractors. The discussion will also include measures for smooth export of construction materials and equipment for large-scaled infrastructure development. (2013/12/06)