Myanmar Coronavirus Travel Impact Summary

The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism will issue safety certificates to hotels, restaurants and tourism destinations to show they meet international standards

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-govt-issue-safety-certificates-hotels-tourist-spots.html

21 Oct inbound

Mandalay region is preparing more quarantine centres

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/mandalay-readies-more-covid-19-quarantine-centers.html

20 Oct inbound

The Minister for Hotels and Tourism participated in a virtual meeting with the Myanmar Tourism Marketing Association, where they discussed digital marketing, the Myanmar Virtual Travel Mart, agricultural tourism development and tourism human resources

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/moht-organizes-virtual-meeting-with-tourism-marketing-association/

20 Oct inbound

5 towns in Shan state will be designated tourism cities as part of the tourism master plan: Kalaw, Nyaung Shwe, Kyaing Tong, Lashio and Thibaw. There will be a K100 million budget and 5% of the Inle Lake Fund will be used for the promotion of Shan hotels and tourism. Kyaing Tong will be promoted for scenic beauty, and China and Thailand inbound markets will be targeted. The first glass bridge in Myanmar will also be built soon in Nawngcho township

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/five-shan-towns-be-promoted-tourism-cities.html

19 Oct inbound

More townships in the Kachin State are included in the stay-at-home programme, including Phakant and Mohnyin

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/republic-of-the-union-of-myanmar-ministry-of-health-and-sports-order-129-2020/

18 Oct inbound

Human Rights Watch has said that Myanmar’s elections are “fundamentally flawed” due to restrictions of the media, arrest of critics and the constitution

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/next-months-myanmar-polls-fundamentally-flawed-human-rights-watch.html

17 Oct inbound

The first two locally transmitted cases in more than one month have been reported in 2 Myanmar nationals living near the Myanmar border

Source: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-first-local-covid-19-cases-in-over-a-month-oct-17-13298378

17 Oct inbound

Although case numbers in Yangon appear to be falling from their peak, it is still around 1,000 cases per day, so the public needs to remain careful to avoid mass gatherings, the Ministry of Health and Sports has said

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/covid-19-cases-decline-yangon-virus-control-measures-still-needed.html

16 Oct inbound

Kayah state has now had its first reported case of COVID-19, meaning every state has now had cases

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmars-kayah-state-reports-first-covid-19-case.html

15 Oct inbound

A 2nd tranche of COVID-19 funds of K21.8 billion will be disbursed to 1200 businesses

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-extends-more-covid-19-funds-businesses.html

12 Oct inbound

Mandalay has imposed a semi-lockdown on some wards in Aung Myay Tharzan after a spike of cases in the area

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/mandalay-imposes-semi-lockdown-aung-myay-tharzan.html

12 Oct inbound

Yangon health authorities have said that the virus is not yet under control in the region, and are considering switching to a community containment strategy where those with mild symptoms who have space for quarantine at home would be sent home

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/covid-19-myanmars-biggest-city-not-control-yet-yangon-health-official-says.html

12 Oct inbound

Sampan Travel have launched an online tour led by a famous military historian, Robert Lyman, who will guide viewers through the country’s wartime history in 7 episodes

Source: www.ttgasia.com/2020/10/12/sampan-travels-seven-part-virtual-tour-highlights-myanmars-wartime-past/

10 Oct inbound

Small businesses and factories in Yangon will be allowed to resume operations after they pass inspections

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/factories-smes-yangon-allowed-reopen-after-passing-inspections.html

8 Oct inbound

Yangon now has enough hospital beds for patients, despite the increase in cases, as 10,000 new beds are ready

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/yangon-now-sufficient-beds-cope-influx-covid-19-patients-health-officials-say.html

7 Oct inbound

More hospitals will be converted in Mandalay into COVID-19 treatment centres

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/mandalay-convert-more-hospitals-covid-19-treatment-centers.html

7 Oct inbound

Myanmar’s number of cases crossed the 20,000 mark, after 10,000 new cases were reported in just 9 days

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmars-covid-19-cases-exceed-20000.html

6 Oct inbound

Myanmar’s Stay-at-Home order has been extended for 2 more weeks from 8-21 Oct

Source: mmbiztoday.com/myanmar-extends-stay-at-home-order-two-more-weeks/

3 Oct inbound

Stricter stay-at-home orders were enforced in Yangon, with all but essential travel banned between townships

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/irrawaddy-business-roundup-38.html

2 Oct inbound

Myanmar had more than 1,000 new cases on 1 Oct. Yangon itself has had more than 10,000 cases total and is the centre of the outbreak

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-reports-1000-new-covid-19-cases-11-deaths.html

2 Oct inbound

Domestic flights have had their suspension extended until 31 Oct

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/domestic-flight-restrictions-myanmar-extended.html

1 Oct inbound

Myanmar has started to use antigen COVID-19 tests in Yangon to test, trace and isolate in an “all-out” battle against the pandemic

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-uses-new-test-kits-intensify-covid-19-containment-strategy.html

30 Sep inbound

Night bazaars with dine-in in Nay Pyi Taw territory will be closed from 30 Sep

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/night-bazaars-nay-pyi-taw-close-down.html

30 Sep inbound

People in Nay Pyi Taw who leave home without a facemask will be fined

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/nay-pyi-taw-fine-people-who-go-out-without-masks.html

28 Sep inbound

Local tourism businesses who are complying with safety protocols should be recognised for doing so. The government suggested that travel industry firms focus on community-based tourism packages, something which the Myanmar Tourism Entrepreneur Association agrees with

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/tourism-firms-should-be-recognised-complying-covid-19-guidelines-state-counsellor.html

26 Sep inbound

State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi marked World Tourism Day with a speech, where she has said that Myanmar is focusing on a sustainable expansion of the tourism sector to contribute to economic and socio-cultural development, and protect cultural heritage promotion businesses. She also urged the formation of working groups to develop new destinations within the country

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/state-counsellor-honours-world-tourism-day-2020-stresses-tourism-and-rural-development/

25 Sep inbound

From 26 Sep, stay-at-home notices have been served for certain townships in Mon State, Mandalay Region, Bago Region and Ayeyawady Region

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/ministry-of-health-and-sports-order-110-2020/

25 Sep inbound

Myanmar reported more than 1,000 new cases on 24 Sep

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-reports-1000-covid-19-cases-day.html

25 Sep inbound

The government will subsidies the salaries of those workers in Yangon Region who are insured and under stay-home notices, up to 40%

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-govt-subsidise-employee-salaries-during-stay-home-period.html

24 Sep inbound

The suspension of international flights has been extended until the 31 Oct

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-extends-intl-flight-suspension-until-october-31.html

24 Sep inbound

1,041 businesses have been approved to take K20.7 billion from the 2nd COVID-19 fund

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/over-1000-businesses-to-receive-k20-bln-from-second-covid-fund/

23 Sep inbound

Hotels in Mandalay have been ordered to close after hotel staff have contracted the virus. The Tourist Guide Association in Mandalay has said that “the tourism sector is on the verge of collapse.”

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/mandalay-hotels-ordered-shut-down-23-more-infections-detected.html

22 Sep inbound

The Myanmar military have warned that cases could climb to 16,000 by the end of Sep if the spread is not contained within the next week. The government has also budgeted for K1 trillion in funds to fight the virus

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-races-contain-spread-covid-19-within-next-two-weeks.html

20 Sep inbound

The whole of the Yangon region will be under Stay-at-home orders from 21 Sep

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/yangon-given-less-24-hours-lockdown-businesses-work-home.html

19 Sep inbound

The revised ADB forecast for Myanmar still maintains growth in 2020 at 1.8%, followed by 5% in 2021

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/business/business-roundup/irrawaddy-business-roundup-36.html

19 Sep inbound

Myanmar will not postpone its 8 Nov general election despite the increase in COVID-19 cases, as it will ensure social distancing at polling stations and add more stations

Source: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/myanmar-wont-postpone-november-polls-election-official-says

17 Sep inbound

Some Yangon residents are barricading their neighbourhoods to stop non-residents from entering out of fear of disease spread

Source: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/yangon-residents-barricade-neighbourhoods-amid-virus-fears

17 Sep inbound

The Union Minister for Hotels and Tourism has said that the increase in cases will seriously impact the hotel and tourism business. He said that the ministry is also continuously implementing the Myanmar Tourism Relief Plan and is also drafting a Myanmar Tourism Strategic Recovery Roadmap (2015-2025)

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/moht-discusses-covid-19-tourism-relief-plan/

16 Sep inbound

Mandalay has resumed social restrictions, banning passenger buses, closing restaurants for dine-in and closing some markets and malls following an uptick in cases

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/mandalay-leader-raises-alarm-rising-infections.html

16 Sep inbound

The Yangon Region Directorate of Hotels and Tourism have closed their offices temporarily due to the outbreak

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/yangon-region-directorate-of-hotels-and-tourism-goes-online-for-administrative-procedures/

15 Sep inbound

Myanmar reported its highest daily case number of 307 on 15 Sep

Source: www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/09/15/myanmar-reports-highest-covid-19-daily-toll-with-307-new-cases/1903567

14 Sep inbound

Travel businesses are asking the government for more tax relief for the remainder of 2020, seeking an extension before tax rates are raised from 1 Oct on undisclosed sources of income

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-tourism-sector-asks-government-delay-tax-hike.html

14 Sep inbound

The Myanmar Tourism Association have said that domestic tourism companies are shifting to other businesses such as food

Source: www.mizzima.com/article/tourism-companies-and-tour-guides-shift-other-businesses

11 Sep inbound

The Cu Chi Tunnels are looking to be recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Source: en.vietnamplus.vn/cu-chi-tunnels-seek-unescos-recognition-as-world-heritage/182813.vnp

11 Sep inbound

Domestic travel has been banned across the country, with all residents urged to not leave their regions and states unless absolutely necessary

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-bans-domestic-travel-stop-covid-19-spread.html

10 Sep inbound

Myanmar has increased lockdown measures in Yangon, with the stay-at-home order applying to almost half of the townships. Domestic airlines have suspended their flights until the end of Sep, and people should not travel other than in an emergency

Source: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/myanmar-covid-19-lockdown-measures-airlines-suspended-13099142

9 Sep inbound

Tax relief has been extended until 31 Dec for prioritised sectors, something that the Union of Myanmar Travel Association welcomes

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-extends-financial-support-measures-local-businesses.html

9 Sep inbound

Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Myanmar has said that a lack of air connectivity between the 2 countries should be made a top priority, with a focus on cultural tourism

Source: www.dailynews.lk/2020/09/09/local/228237/%E2%80%98cultural-tourism-will-promote-myanmar-sri-lanka-major-tourist-hubs%E2%80%99

9 Sep inbound

Yangon International Airport has reopened Terminal 3 Gate 4 after construction work was finished

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/yangon-airport-reopens-gate-4-of-terminal-3/

8 Sep inbound

The tax payment deadline has been extended until 31 Dec, to boost morale

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-extends-tax-deadline-end-year-aid-covid-hit-businesses.html

8 Sep inbound

Mandalay has stricter regulations for those coming from Yangon or Rakhine – now they must be quarantined in a facility, and tested at their own expense

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/mandalay-toughens-restrictions-visitors-yangon-rakhine.html

7 Sep inbound

The quarantine period for positive COVID-19 patients has been reduced from 21 to 14 days with mild or moderate illness

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/health-ministry-reduces-quarantine-period-covid-19-positive-patients-14-days.html

6 Sep inbound

The number of passengers on the Myeik-Yangon express buses has dropped by over 80% in the first week of Sep

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/passenger-volume-drops-by-80pc-on-myeik-yangon-route/

6 Sep inbound

Restaurants in Yangon region must only operate under a takeaway system from 8 Sep

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/restaurants-yangon-only-sell-take-away-system.html

4 Sep inbound

Civil servants returning to Naypyitaw with a travel history to townships who have had positive cases of COVID-19 will need to stay at community quarantine facilities for 7 days

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/republic-of-the-union-of-myanmar-nay-pyi-taw-council-order-no-95-2020/

3 Sep inbound

Mandalay have extended their COVID-19 measures until 15 Sep, including the wearing of face masks and a ban on 30 pax gathered together. Returnees from Rakhine and Yangon must be quarantined for 21 days, and a nightly curfew of 12am – 4am will be enforced

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/mandalay-extends-preventive-measures-virus-cases-surge.html

3 Sep inbound

Any delays to the general election due in Nov in Myanmar will be announced next month

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/elections/myanmars-election-body-decide-covid-19-election-delay-october.html

2 Sep inbound

Stay-at-home orders have been imposed on 7 townships in Yangon, including Thingangyun, Insein, North Okkalapa, Tharkerta, Hlaing, Pazundaung and Mingaladon. Those who have essential jobs may still go to work, but only one individual per household is allowed to go grocery shopping at a time. There has also been a case detected in Yangon who had no recent travel history or contact with any known patient

Source: coconuts.co/yangon/news/7-yangon-townships-partially-locked-down-as-coronavirus-rages/

1 Sep inbound

A white paper, Myanmar: Priorities for Restarting Tourism has been released with recommendations about opportunities, focusing on sustainable tourism management and going beyond the major tourism destinations to ecotourism, outdoor and adventure activities. It also recommends that zero-dollar tours are banned and more licensed Chinese speaking guides trained to benefit the whole tourism supply chain

Source: www.ttgasia.com/2020/09/01/white-paper-plots-way-forward-for-myanmars-tourism/

30 Aug inbound

Myanmar has now had 4 locally transmitted cases in Yangon, as well as more in Rakhine

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-reports-16-new-covid-19-cases-including-four-local-transmissions-yangon.html

29 Aug inbound

Clarification has been made for foreign staff seeking to re-enter Myanmar – they will need to prove that they are on urgent businesses and must contact the Myanmar Embassy to fly on relief flights

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/business/business-roundup/irrawaddy-business-roundup-33.html

29 Aug inbound

The temporary ban on entry to Myanmar has been extended until 30 Sep, including the suspension of visas and visa exemptions. International flights have also been banned until 30 Sep

Source: www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/myanmar-extends-temporary-entry-restrictions-to-all-visitors-to-curb-covid-19-spread

29 Aug inbound

Myanmar had its biggest jump in reported cases at 77 on 29 Aug

Source: www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/08/29/myanmar-reports-biggest-daily-rise-in-coronavirus-infections/1898450

27 Aug inbound

All townships in Rakhine State will now be subjected to a Stay-At-Home order

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/stay-at-home-order-remains-best-option-to-contain-covid-19/

27 Aug inbound

Innovative social media campaigns by the Kayah State and Tanintharyi region have been implemented. Young staff at the states’ Ministry of Hotels and Tourism have had remote support to upgrade their crisis communication skills on digital media. They aimed to show empathy and establish trust with future travellers. The support was part of a project funded by the Netherlands

Source: www.marketscreener.com/news/Story-Digital-marketing-holds-promise-for-tourism-in-Myanmar--31185977/

27 Aug inbound

Job hunting has increased by 20% according to Myjobs.com.mm. Those employees who have left the tourism industry have been encouraged to enter jobs in digital and IT fields, leaving a shortage of workers when tourism recovers

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/job-hunting-rate-creeps-20pc-during-covid-19-myanmar.html

27 Aug inbound

Myanmar schools re-closed nationwide on 27 Aug

Source: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/myanmar-covid-19-coronavirus-schools-closed-13059754

26 Aug inbound

Centara Hotels has signed Hotel Management Agreements with 3 hotels in Myanmar, including the Centra by Centara Hotel Thiri Hpa-Ann, Hpa-An Hilltop Resort & Spa and Centara Hotel Mandalay

Source: www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4100347.html

26 Aug inbound

A localised lockdown is underway in a street in South Okkalapa township, Yangon, after a case was detected from a resident

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/street-yangons-south-okkala-placed-under-covid-19-restrictions.html

24 Aug inbound

The Myanmar Tour Guide Association (MGTA) has called for loans for their members, as they are not currently included in the government’s loan financial assistance scheme, and only benefit from a subsidisation of training courses currently

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/industry-body-urges-more-help-tour-guides-myanmar.html

24 Aug inbound

Myanmar and Japan have agreed to open their borders to one another for expatriate and long-term residents as early as Sep. Travellers must stay at home or at a designated place after arriving for 14 days. Japan also pledged $283 million USD to support Myanmar SMEs. They will also speed up talks to allow essential business travel

Source: english.kyodonews.net/news/2020/08/3e80da35617f-japan-myanmar-agree-to-reopen-borders-for-long-term-residents.html

24 Aug inbound

A new express train from Yangon to Mawlamyine was inaugurated on 22 Aug

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/new-express-train-service-launches-on-yangon-mawlamyine-road/

23 Aug aviation

The Magway flight routing has changed from Sittway – Ann – Magway to Yangon – Nyaung U – Magway for 2 weeks, due to COVID-19. Express passenger buses in Rakhine State and Magway Region have also been suspended

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/covid-local-transmission-changes-magway-flight-route/

23 Aug inbound

Rakhine State was designated a “Stay-at-home” township from 20 Aug, with residents only allowed to leave their homes for essential purposes

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/public-notification-on-covid-19-2/

22 Aug inbound

51 locally transmitted cases have been detected in the last week, with 22 on 22 Aug alone, all in Rakhine State

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-reports-more-50-local-covid-19-transmissions-within-week.html

22 Aug aviation

The Department of Civil Aviation has released COVID-19 guidelines for domestic airlines to follow, including the disinfection of the planes before and after landings, stopping serving food and distributing blankets and flight attendants wearing PPE. Overall, there were 13,151 domestic flights between Jan – Jun, a 22% decline YoY

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/dca-releases-covid-19-prevention-guidelines-domestic-airlines-myanmar.html

20 Aug aviation

Several domestic airlines suspended flights to Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine state, including Mann Yadanarpon Airlines, Myanmar International Airlines, Shwe Myanmar airline. Yangon has said that people who come to the city from Sittwe will need to undergo a 21-day quarantine

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/flights-suspended-govt-eyes-virus-second-wave-rakhine.html

20 Aug inbound

Entertainment businesses such as KTV, bars and nightclubs are still to remain closed in Yangon, authorities have announced

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/entertainment-businesses-yangon-remain-restricted.html

19 Aug inbound

Mandalay has partially lifted the ban on religious activities, allowing people to worship, but the ban on public resorts, nightclubs, karaoke bars, concerts, cinemas, pagoda festivals and weddings remains. The curfew from 12am – 4am also remains in place

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/mandalay-partly-lifts-ban-religious-events.html

19 Aug inbound

Inflation levels have eased due to declining consumer spend. A World Bank survey has also shown that Myanmar businesses have reduced access to credit to support their business operations

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/pressure-eases-myanmar-inflation-due-declining-consumer-demand.html

17 Aug aviation

In Jul, Myanmar Airways International and Air KBZ operated 250 flights, including chartered, cargo and schedule flights. They have also not undertaken any paycuts or made staff redundant yet, the CEO has said, and intend to prepare for growth

Source: asianaviation.com/aav-in-conversation-with-saravanan-ramasamy-ceo-of-myanmar-airways-air-kbz/

17 Aug inbound

The first locally transmitted case of COVID in weeks was detected in Rakhine state, sparking fears of a second wave

Source: coconuts.co/yangon/news/fear-covid-19-backslide-grips-myanmar-after-new-domestic-case-reported/

15 Aug inbound

More than 10,000 businesses have applied for emergency loans for the 2nd time

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/over-10000-enterprises-apply-for-covid-loans-in-second-time/

14 Aug inbound

Yangon International Airport will close Terminal 3 Gate 4 until the end of Aug

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/yia-terminal-3-gate-4-to-close-till-end-of-august/

14 Aug inbound

Abercrombie & Kent Myanmar have launched a new campaign aimed at domestic travellers, “Discover your Asia”. This offers a luxury experience with special resident rates for private tours around Myanmar, and sailings on the Sanctuary Ananda river cruise

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/discover-your-asia-domestic-travellers.html

14 Aug inbound

Myanmar’s COVID-19 restrictions have been extended to 31 Aug, including compulsory face mask wearing in public places

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-extends-covid-19-restrictions-august-31.html

13 Aug inbound

Gatherings of less than 30 people will be permitted from 16 Aug, as no COVID-19 cases have been detected for 26 days. The government is also considering reopening cinemas and resuming local football tournaments

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-relax-covid-19-gatherings-rule.html

12 Aug inbound

The Kawthaung travel and tourism district secretary has said that the government must give special opportunities to locals and SMEs to develop tourism, as well as put a stop to illegal fishing

Source: elevenmyanmar.com/news/kawthaung-locals-and-sme-businesses-need-opportunities-for-tourism-development

12 Aug inbound

The Ministry of Education continues to discuss reopening of schools

Source: www.gnlm.com.mm/moe-discusses-reopening-of-schools-under-covid-19-measures/

11 Aug aviation

The Sri Lankan ambassador held a meeting with Myanmar Airways International to try to establish an air connection between the 2 countries. Routes such as Colombo – Yangon – Bodhgaya or Colombo – Yangon – Kathmandu were proposed

Source: colombogazette.com/2020/08/11/sri-lanka-looks-to-establishing-direct-air-connectivity-with-myanmar/

10 Aug inbound

Confused inter-state travel requirements and the closure of key monuments is not helping tourism businesses to operate. Tour operators also complain of unregulated online tourism businesses

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-govts-plan-promote-local-tourism-clashes-covid-19-preventive-measures.html

10 Aug inbound

The Sanctuary Retreats luxury river cruise operator completed its first 2 sailings on the Irrawaddy river in Jul

Source: www.travelweekly.co.uk/articles/382334/river-cruise-operator-hails-successful-return-to-sailing

9 Aug inbound

Bagan Plastic Campaign undertook a plastic tidy-up on Bagan ancient cultural zone

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/bagan-plastic-campaign-leads-trash-collecting-in-ancient-cultural-zone/

7 Aug inbound

Myanmar has been added to Level 3: Reconsider Travel to the travel advisories for US citizens

Source: mm.usembassy.gov/travel-advisory-8720/

7 Aug aviation

Myanmar Airways International has seen domestic flights picking up slowly, and is now swing 3-5 hours’ of usage compared to its previous 10-11 hours. However, it has still managed to operate 250 flights from Mar to late Jul, including some charter flights. However, it still plans to add 4 Embraer E190s by the year-end, as well as 4 A320s by early 2021

Source: www.flightglobal.com/strategy/myanmar-airways-international-bucks-trend-with-planned-growth/139672.article?adredir=1

6 Aug inbound

The Hotels and Tourism Ministry have reminded the public that the reopening of tourism destinations is subject to change. Local tour operators say that they have had to cancel tours because of the limitations of attractions being closed

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-tourist-spots-reopening-changes-depend-covid-19-situations.html

6 Aug inbound

The Mandalay Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry has called for tourist destinations to be reopened to local tourists to help the hotels and service industry survive

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/reopen-domestic-tourism-support-local-employees-mandalay-businesses-urge.html

4 Aug inbound

Aung San Suu Kyi has confirmed that she will be running for a second term in Myanmar’s upcoming November elections

Source: www.thaipbsworld.com/myanmars-aung-san-suu-kyi-confirms-contesting-for-second-term/

4 Aug inbound

Ayeryarwady Region will now allow businesses to invest in hotels and tourism, amongst other sectors

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/ayeyarwady-shan-advance-investment-promotion-plans.html

4 Aug inbound

Myanmar’s economy is forecast to bounce back at a faster pace than regional averages, one of the few countries not to enter negative GDP growth in 2020

Source: mmbiztoday.com/myanmars-economy-to-rebounce-faster-than-the-regional-and-global-average/

3 Aug inbound

Occupancy at hotels in Mandalay and Bagan is reaching 75% on long weekends and public holidays. Around 200 travel companies have benefited from a stimulus package

Source: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/08/myanmar-no-flights-before-october/

3 Aug inbound

Tourism officials now say that international flights may not resume until Oct

Source: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/08/myanmar-no-flights-before-october/

31 Jul inbound

COVID-19 preventive measures across the country have been extended from 31 Jul to 15 Aug. In addition, Ayeryarwady Region’s hotels, resorts and beaches will only reopen after receiving approval to do so, but no official announcement has yet been made

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/ayeyarwady-beaches-and-resorts-remain-limits.html

31 Jul inbound

Domestic tourists have started to return to Hpa-An, with hotels at 80% occupancy even on weekdays due to its close location to Yangon

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/travel/travelers-return-hpa-myanmars-domestic-tourism-reopens.html

31 Jul inbound

Myathalun pagoda in Magway region requested to reopen on 28 Jul

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/magway-myathalun-pagoda-likely-to-reopen-in-august/

31 Jul inbound

Despite the announcement that pagodas can reopen up on 30 Jul, some pagodas will remain closed

Source: mizzima.com/article/some-pagodas-yangon-cannot-reopen-despite-permission

30 Jul inbound

Pagodas and temples in Yangon region will be reopened on 30 Jul, in accordance with the health and safety guidelines

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/pagodas-temples-in-yangon-region-reopen-today/

30 Jul inbound

The Ministry of Health & Sport will allow gatherings of a maximum of 15 people from 1 Aug

Source: mmbiztoday.com/mohs-allows-gatherings-but-not-more-than-15-people/

29 Jul inbound

The flight suspension to Myanmar has been extended to 31 Aug. However, there are some “fast lanes” for essential businesses and officials upon request. These have started with China and Japan, and will be extended gradually to other countries. Myanmar citizens will also be allowed to travel abroad for medical treatment, studying abroad or working abroad on specially arranged flights

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/international-flight-suspension-myanmar-extended-until-august-31.html

29 Jul inbound

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has discussed reopening movie production operations, as well as reopening cinemas

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/state-counsellor-discusses-restarting-movie-production-operations-during-covid-period-with-movie-industry-senior-executives/

29 Jul inbound

Mandalay region has closed Bagan’s most important temples and pagodas o close at Bagan’s archaeological zone ahead of the long weekend, heavily affecting the region’s tourism as customers cancelled tours

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-closes-bagans-temples-ahead-weekend-holiday-amid-covid-19-fears.html

29 Jul aviation

Thai AirAsia announced plans to resume the following routes in Aug from Bangkok Don Mueang Airport to Phnom Penh, Singapore and Yangon

Source: centreforaviation.com/news/thai-airasia-to-resume-services-on-16-aug-2020-1014057

28 Jul inbound

The government is considering reducing rent for tourism businesses on state land, such as hotels. Of the country’s 2,000 hotels, only 1,200 have reopened. The government also wants to launch incentive travel programs to healthcare personnel and volunteers

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/govt-considers-reducing-rent-hotels-occupying-state-owned-land.html

23 Jul inbound

Japan announced that it is looking at relaxing entry restrictions for business travellers from 12 Asian territories, including Singapore, Cambodia, Brunei, Malaysia, Myanmar and Laos from SE Asia. Travellers would still need to self-quarantine for 14-days, pass a COVID test and not take public transportation

Source: www.straitstimes.com/singapore/coronavirus-singapore-and-japan-will-work-towards-resuming-essential-travel

22 Jul inbound

Myanmar partially reopened government schools, with 3,772 hotels reopening. Middle schools and primary schools are expected to reopen in 4-8 weeks

Source: mainichi.jp/english/articles/20200722/p2g/00m/0in/043000c

17 Jul inbound

A new hotel zone will be established near Shwesettaw pagoda in Magway, including an ecotourism project with wildlife sanctuaries. Work is expected to start in Feb 2021

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/hotel-zone-to-be-established-near-shwesettaw/

16 Jul inbound

More than half of the tourism industry will be closed for the next 6 months, according to the Tourism Ministry. They think that the economy will reduce consumer spending power

Source: 7day.news/%E1%80%94%E1%80%B1%E1%80%AC%E1%80%84%E1%80%BA%E1%80%81%E1%80%BC%E1%80%B1%E1%80%AC%E1%80%80%E1%80%BA%E1%80%9C%E1%80%A1%E1%80%90%E1%80%BD%E1%80%84%E1%80%BA%E1%80%B8-%E1%80%9F%E1%80%AD%E1%80%AF%E1%80%90%E1%80%9A%E1%80%BA%E1%80%94%E1%80%BE%E1%80%84%E1%80%B7%E1%80%BA%E1%80%81%E1%80%9B%E1%80%AE%E1%80%B8%E1%80%9E%E1%80%BD%E1%80%AC%E1%80%B8%E1%80%9C%E1%80%AF%E1%80%95%E1%80%BA%E1%80%84%E1%80%94%E1%80%BA%E1%80%B8%E1%80%91%E1%80%80%E1%80%BA%E1%80%9D%E1%80%80%E1%80%BA%E1%80%80%E1%80%BB%E1%80%B1%E1%80%AC%E1%80%BA-%E1%80%95%E1%80%AD%E1%80%90%E1%80%BA%E1%80%9E%E1%80%AD%E1%80%99%E1%80%BA%E1%80%B8%E1%80%9B%E1%80%99%E1%80%8A%E1%80%B7%E1%80%BA%E1%80%A1%E1%80%81%E1%80%BC%E1%80%B1%E1%80%A1%E1%80%94%E1%80%B1%E1%80%9B%E1%80%BE%E1%80%AD%E1%80%9F%E1%80%AF-%E1%80%92%E1%80%AF%E1%80%9D%E1%80%94%E1%80%BA%E1%80%80%E1%80%BC%E1%80%AE%E1%80%B8%E1%80%95%E1%80%BC%E1%80%B1%E1%80%AC------192416

16 Jul outbound

Taiwan has now designated Myanmar as having a low or low-to-moderate risk, allowing Myanmar international students to return to study at Taiwan universities

Source: www.mizzima.com/article/myanmar-students-allowed-return-taiwan

14 Jul inbound

The Union of Myanmar Travel Association has expressed worry at the potential of flights only reopening in Oct: “It appears that we can no longer wait for Covid-19 to be eliminated. By the time Covid-19 is eliminated, tour operators will no longer have a business.”

Source: www.nst.com.my/world/region/2020/07/608418/travel-ban-worry-myanmar

14 Jul inbound

Myanmar has extended its internal restrictions until 31 Jul, including the limiting of social gatherings, the curfew in Yangon of 12am – 4am and social distancing in public

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-extends-covid-19-restrictions-july-31.html

13 Jul inbound

Myanmar are planning to allow Chinese travellers with urgent business matters to enter the country under a “Fast Track” scheme with a special quarantine program. The Chinese travellers could arrive into Myanmar via relief, special and chartered flights. They plan to expand this scheme to other countries too. Travellers must bring a negative COVID-19 test, and will undergo 2 swab tests. After 5 days, they will be able to do their work. Costs will be borne by the travellers

Source: www.bnionline.net/en/news/chinese-business-travellers-allowed-entry-myanmar-under-new-scheme

13 Jul inbound

Bagan is starting to see more domestic tourists arrive from further afield

Source: www.frontiermyanmar.net/en/no-rain-no-visitors-and-no-income-bagan-adjusts-to-tourism-crash/

11 Jul inbound

The government will create a fund of 500 billion kyats to support businesses, including those in tourism. The loans will help to pay salaries and will be at a 1% interest rate

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/business/business-roundup/irrawaddy-business-roundup-26.html

11 Jul inbound

State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi met with tourism players to discuss COVID-19’s impact. The Union Minister revealed that the industry is currently seeing less than 10% of previous figures and that resumption of the industry is the best way to support it, as funds are limited. She Aung San Suu Kyi commented that she did not want to see Myanmar become a country where tourists go to travel cheaply, where visitors can connect “heart to heart” and “mind to mind”

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/state-counsellor-discusses-impact-of-covid-on-hotels-and-tourism-sector-with-stakeholders/

10 Jul aviation

The numbers of passengers to Yangon International Airport have decline 96% YoY from Mar-May. The airport has had to reduce salaries of airport staff, from 25% to 5%

Source: elevenmyanmar.com/news/virus-hit-local-tourism-the-continued-shutdown-of-yangon-international-airport-and-weak-signal

10 Jul inbound

The Vice President has said that it is unlikely Myanmar will open its doors until Oct, with international commercial flights only after Q3. The government plans to start travel bubbles with Thailand and Vietnam, and after those are successful, with Japan, Korea, China, Hong Kong and Macau. The Myanmar Airways International GM said, “If the ban is extended until October, airlines, airport operators and all the tour operators would collapse”

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/intl-passenger-flights-likely-banned-october-myanmar-vice-president.html

10 Jul outbound

Fit to fly certificates will be available for urgent overseas travel

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-issues-covid-19-travel-fit-certificates-urgent-overseas-trips.html

10 Jul outbound

The Ministry of Health has begun COVID-19 tests to provide certificates for fit-to-fly for urgent overseas travel

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-issues-covid-19-travel-fit-certificates-urgent-overseas-trips.html

9 Jul outbound

Japan is planning to start talks about restarting business flights in mid-Jul with 10 more economies, including Myanmar

Source: asia.nikkei.com/Politics/International-relations/Japan-looks-to-reopen-business-travel-with-10-more-Asian-economies

8 Jul inbound

Just 82 foreigners arrived in April into Myanmar. The Tourism Ministry is looking at creating a “Safe and Enchanting Travel in Myanmar”

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/vice-president-u-henry-van-thio-attends-national-tourism-development-central-committee-meeting/

8 Jul inbound

The State Counsellor has asked for innovative ideas to develop the tourism industry in sustainable ways

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/state-counsellor-addresses-national-tourism-development-central-committee-meeting/

6 Jul inbound

There have been 12 different looting incidents of temples in Bagan in Jun, with relics stolen

Source: www.bangkokpost.com/world/1946608/looters-target-myanmar-temple-treasures-in-tourist-slump

6 Jul inbound

Myanma Railways (MR) will reopen trains between Yangon to Bago and Ye

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/mr-to-resume-train-services-to-bago-ye-from-yangon/

1 Jul inbound

Myanmar continues to encourage people to visit different locations as domestic tourists within the country

Source: www.asiatraveltips.com/news20/17-LaosMyanmar.shtml

1 Jul inbound

Myanmar’s next General Election will be on 8 Nov

Source: www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/myanmar-to-hold-general-election-on-nov-8-12891670

30 Jun inbound

The partial lockdown in Yangon’s Insein township has been removed as of 1 Jul, meaning all stay-at-home orders have been lifted nationwide

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-lifts-last-stay-home-restrictions-covid-19-epicenter.html

30 Jun outbound

Thailand has opened up 37 border checkpoints on the borders with Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar to facilitate cross-border cargo and trading. Tourists will not be allowed to enter via these checkpoints still

Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/06/30/cambodia-and-laos-happy-as-thailand-reopens-37-border-checkpoints

30 Jun inbound

800 hotels across 12 states and regions have reopened. The Chairman of Myanmar Tourism Marketing doesn’t expect to see foreign tourists during the peak season of Oct 2020 – Feb 2021, but remains confident that domestic tourism will develop as hotels are discounting 25-30%

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/domestic-tourism-reopens-myanmar-businesses-struggle-get-back-feet.html

29 Jun inbound

Myanmar has extended its ban on incoming flights and visa issuances until 31 Jul. A 21-day quarantine will be imposed to all who enter the country

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-extends-covid-19-visa-flight-bans-july-31.html

27 Jun inbound

Myanmar’s COVID-19 preventive measures will be in extended until 15 Jul, including compulsory wearing of face masks in public, Yangon curfew between 12am – 4am, lockdowns at Insein township, gatherings of 5 people or more prohibited

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-govt-extends-covid-19-preventive-measures-july-15.html

25 Jun inbound

Domestic tourism remains difficult for foreigners residing in Myanmar, with operators lacking clarification from the government, and various requirements needed, including recommendation letters

Source: www.myanmarmix.com/en/articles/can-foreign-nationals-really-travel-around-myanmar-now

24 Jun outbound

Mall operators in Thailand call for the government to resume flights to CLMV (Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam) nations. Some 12% of visitors to the Siam Center, Siam Discovery and Sia, Paragon are all from CLMV nations, and spend an average of $3,250 per visit

Source: www.phnompenhpost.com/business/thai-flights-will-reboot-trade?__cf_chl_jschl_tk__=0836986aebe3e733b257c6ff1803dd1bbcd30bd6-1593049810-0-AaPuS4cOzPaEkp19ECGbDA0kcnHPNxGk5lSIL687PECRuQISe9--MNk2DxhWrowkVS0btcUjoFnbbPtvEDbdKoQhbSorSjZVjdmDBmAoBPP5XiUEu5Bk8bap-zMymruGmaleQ4r4hhYRKtoyfyoLAPLzyLHXVLpvoh2GRm3pcCQIGhmUvq-u1fJEU8ItemdlhiROonFBbl1MZBLE7vtVqwyfwJJmLVO18obhGhUOPJY6QOvvknVrivdaDjIe0SUSf7qPdCkpFdzdWx6HOU-GHiV2VHROzfDq3ol4wqzGDdwK7ZbzvwlpB4-a6xZR-C5VBz4r5WYvQ7lbmwdFzOZIKsw

24 Jun aviation

AirAsia is thinking of resuming international flights in Jul, with more potential routes filed including Kuala Lumpur to Yangon

Source: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/06/airasia-rethinks-july-flights/

24 Jun inbound

The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism has clarified that there are no restrictions for foreigners who are already in Myanmar to travel domestically, unless they are residents of the Insein Township

Source: www.myanmore.com/2020/06/no-restrictions-for-domestic-travel-in-myanmar/

23 Jun inbound

Universities have yet to have a date set for reopening

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/no-timeframe-reopening-myanmar-universities.html

23 Jun inbound

An island and river in Rakhine State have been proposed to be designated a marine national park by a local conservation group

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/conservation-group-proposes-marine-national-park-rakhine-coast.html

22 Jun inbound

Myanmar Airways International (MAI) is expanding its fleet despite seeing a drop of 20-30% in demand. The airline has just taken possession of a second-hand A319, and expects to receive another 4 A320s by year-end. They will also take 4 more Embraer planes in Aug, in a bid to “position MAI as the biggest carrier in Myanmar”. Tourism revenue overall for Myanmar has dropped by more than 50% from Jan – May, with just $53.2 million USD generated vs. 2019’s $53.2 million USD. A quarter of the hotel industry’s 96,000 staff have lost their jobs, and half of tour operators have ceased operations. Just 680 hotels out of 2,000 in the country remain open

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-airways-gears-rebound-tourism.html

22 Jun inbound

The Myanmar government will give K20,000 stimulus money to 5.4 million households in Myanmar

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/govt-plans-stimulus-payments-54m-households.html

21 Jun inbound

8 hotels in Bagan have been granted permission to reopen as they have met the new criteria

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/8-hotels-in-bagan-granted-to-reopen/

20 Jun inbound

Domestic tourism is expected to restart in Q3, with pagodas and cultural sites to reopen very soon. The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism expects Chinese and Japanese travellers to return in 2021, with a 50-60% recovery, and 80-90% recovery in 2022

Source: www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/06/20/myanmar-to-restart-domestic-tourism-from-q3

19 Jun inbound

Myanmar recorded its highest level of imported cases, at 23, on 19 Jun, raising concerns about lifting the international flight ban

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-reports-highest-single-day-surge-covid-19-cases.html

17 Jun inbound

Elephant camps in the Mandalay region are preparing to reopen in October

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/pyin-oo-lwin-elephant-camps-prepare-reopen.html

16 Jun inbound

Long-haul bus companies are still suffering due to a lack of passengers – they have previously relied on domestic tourism and can only stay afloat if domestic tourism starts to recover

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/long-distance-bus-companies-myanmar-face-tough-times-due-covid-19.html

16 Jun inbound

Myanmar expects its most severe economic impact to be from Sep 2020, but that its government is well-prepared to face this

Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1935800/myanmar-expects-worst-of-covids-economic-impact-from-sept

16 Jun inbound

Domestic local travellers are now required to carry recommendation letters from their residency when travelling around Myanmar, with the exception of travel to Yangon region

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/recommendation-letters-required-domestic-travel-myanmar.html

15 Jun inbound

376 hotels and tourism businesses have been approved for a COVID-19 government loan. Once pagodas and museums are reopened, inbound tours will gradually run, according to the ministry

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/hotels-tourism-sector-attacks-k180-bln-investment-in-h1-2019-2020fy/

15 Jun inbound

Mandalay has allowed gyms, parks, fitness centres and the Mandalay Gem Market to reopen, but weddings, pagoda festivals, cinemas and amusement parks are still not allowed to reopen. People returning to Mandalay region from outside the region must complete a 21-day community-based facility quarantine, followed by a home quarantine for 7 days

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/mandalay-allows-reopening-gyms-training-centres-gem-market.html

14 Jun inbound

Schools are scheduled to reopen on 21 Jul, starting with high schools, then primary and middle schools 2 weeks later

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/schools-close-again-if-covid-19-case-reemerges-after-opening-minister.html

13 Jun outbound

The Thai government has approved in principle the concept of travel bubbles, and potential target countries and territories could include Myanmar

Source: www.bangkokpost.com/business/1933984/ccsa-blows-towards-travel-bubble-plan

13 Jun inbound

The international flights ban has been extended until 30 Jun from 15 Jun. Other lockdown measures are still in place until 30 Jun, including a Yangon curfew, lockdowns in Insein and Mayangone townships, gathering of 5 people or more and compulsory face mask wearing in public

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-extends-covid-19-control-measures-flight-restrictions.html

12 Jun inbound

The beta version of the Tourism National Guidelines have been compiled. The Ministry is looking at reopening pagodas and museums for domestic tourism, and are also preparing for adventure tourism, forming a Sports Tourism Committee

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/union-ministries-discuss-national-tourism-guidelines-for-covid-19-safe-services/

12 Jun aviation

The new Bago international airport plans will still proceed. Located just 80km away from Yangon, the government believes that Yangon airport will reach full capacity by 2020 (based on pre-COVID rates), so a new airport is necessary. Other local airports such as Heho, Mawlamyine and Kawthaung, are also set to be upgraded

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/bago-airport-plan-still-ministry-says.html

11 Jun inbound

High schools may resume in July, gradually followed by other levels

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/union-education-minister-holds-talks-on-school-reopening-plans/

10 Jun inbound

The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism have announced their COVID-19 Tourism Relief Plan to help tourism operators, to run from Apr 2020 – Jan 2021: • Phase 1 (Apr-Jun): low-interest loans. Between 9 Apr – 2 Jun, over 1,000 tourism businesses received K27 billion. Tax and license fee waivers • Phase 2 (Jun-Aug): reopening Myanmar’s tourism. Government working to open regional tourism, and health and safety plans being developed • Phase 3 (Aug-Jan 20201): begin promoting Myanmar internationally, with visa exemptions, ease of travel restrictions and boosting tourism infrastructure

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-announces-plan-support-embattled-tourism-sector.html

10 Jun inbound

April’s international arrival numbers were less than 100

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/moht-unveils-covid-19-relief-plan-to-restart-tourism-industry/

9 Jun aviation

Domestic airlines will need to cooperate with one another, the Ministry of Transport has said. Under new rules, airlines can only carry 75% of their capacity, and this strain may lead to smaller airlines requiring financial assistance or merging with larger ones

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/domestic-airlines-need-join-hands-survival-post-covid.html

8 Jun inbound

More than a third of Myanmar’s businesses have temporarily closed according to a new survey and that 64% of businesses expect to face cash flow problems that will impact their survival

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/covid-19-shuts-down-third-myanmar-businesses.html

6 Jun inbound

75% of Myanmar consumers feel mid-term uncertainty about the economy, with just 8% believing it will cause a long-lasting recession. 87% have revealed they are being very careful with how they spend money and 79% have already cut back on spending

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/resilient-yet-uncertain-how-myanmar-consumers-are-feeling-midst-covid-19.html

5 Jun inbound

The Deputy Minister of Hotels and Tourism said that the Myanmar government will work together with Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam to introduce regional tourism, with the 4 countries signing an agreement to ease border access between them, although specific details have not yet been released. Visitors to Myanmar in Jan-Apr dropped by 44% YoY. New plans for tourism include focusing on “quality” travellers with higher spend. Tour companies are waiting for government guidelines to ensure safe reopening of their businesses

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-work-neighbours-revive-tourism.html

4 Jun inbound

Differing quarantine regulations for inter-state travel is making it difficult for domestic tourism, with each region and state imposing their own conditions

Source: frontiermyanmar.net/en/inconsistent-quarantine-rules-leave-domestic-travel-uncertain

3 Jun aviation

The government is considering a $24 million USD bailout for Myanmar National Airlines, as the airline is burning $4.8 million USD a month for operational expenses. The loan would only be considered if staff or pay cuts are implemented

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-mulls-24-million-loan-keep-national-airline-afloat.html

2 Jun inbound

The opening of Falam’s airport in Chin state has been delayed due to COVID-19. It will be the 69th airport in Myanmar

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/opening-first-airport-myanmars-chin-state-delayed-amid-covid-19.html

1 Jun inbound

The Mekong Tourism Forum, scheduled to be held in Bagan in August, will be postponed to Feb 2021

Source: www.travelweekly-asia.com/Travel-News/Trade-Shows-and-Events/Mekong-Tourism-Forum-sets-new-date?utm_source=enews&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=TWAedaily

1 Jun inbound

Mandalay-based highway buses will be allowed to resume travel to other states and regions from 1 Jun

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/mandalay-reopens-highway-buses-to-states-regions/

1 Jun inbound

The inbound entry ban has been extended until 15 Jun

Source: www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-06/01/c_139105867.htm

31 May inbound

All government employees shall work at their offices from 1 Jun

Source: mizzima.com/article/all-myanmar-government-employees-will-return-work-starting-june-1

29 May aviation

AirAsia are considering resuming routes from Kuala Lumpur to Myanmar (Yangon)

Source: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/05/airasia-resumes-more-flights-in-asia/

27 May inbound

A survey with tourism industry respondents has showed that 80% of MSMEs have been affected “extremely badly”, with confidence in the government’s support very low. Almost 90% have seen decreased revenue and 60% have had to reduce their workforce through furlough or redundancies. 53% also were not aware what government support is available. The Myanmar Tourism Entrepreneurs Association has been launching resilience packages for tourism businesses

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-tourism-sector-needs-govt-support-covid-19-new-survey.html

27 May aviation

More domestic airlines will resume services, including Air Thanlwin. Myanmar National Airlines, Air KBZ, Mann Yadanarpon Airlines and Golden Myanmar Airlines have already started operating routes again

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/more-myanmar-airlines-resume-operations.html

26 May inbound

60 hotels and guesthouses in Mandalay have applied to reopen – only those who pass an inspection will be permitted to do so. They have to comply with 57 requirements

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/60-hotels-guesthouses-seek-reopen-mandalay.html

23 May inbound

There will be three stages in a roadmap for tourism, according to the Union Minister for Hotels and Tourism: 1. Survival, immediate action with the self-finance and stimulus package 2. Reopening and relaxing of lockdown and quarantine, to be implemented within 3-6 months 3. Relaunching, relaxing regulations and reinventing Myanmar tourism, to be implemented within 6-12 months

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/moht-discusses-finalizing-covid-19-tourism-strategic-roadmap/

22 May inbound

Schools are expected to reopen by mid-July

Source: www.mizzima.com/article/government-plans-open-schools-mid-july

19 May inbound

The Union Minister for Hotels and Tourism held a video conference with Chinese tour operators in preparation for the eventual return of Chinese travellers. FIT travellers will not be prioritised in quality control, and package tours will need to operate on a prepaid system that covers health insurance and a Chinese speaking tour guide, as opposed to the “zero budget” tours

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/tour-operators-for-chinese-visitors-discuss-better-services-in-post-covid-19/

17 May inbound

The curfew hours in Yangon have been shortened to 12am – 4am

Source: www.mizzima.com/article/yangon-government-relaxes-curfew-hours-during-covid-19-crisis

14 May aviation

Inbound flight restrictions have been extended until 31 May

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-extends-coronavirus-flight-ban-may-31.html

14 May inbound

Restrictions are to be eased in 4 townships in Yangon, with restaurants allowed to reopen. The Mandalay regional government also announced the easing of restrictions on businesses from 16 May in three stages

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmars-major-cities-ease-covid-19-business-restrictions.html

13 May inbound

A partial lockdown of 10 townships in Yangon has been extended until further notice

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/yangon-extends-lockdown-measures-myanmars-covid-19-hotspots.html

11 May inbound

Myanmar’s tourism industry expects to remain closed for the rest of 2020, with fewer foreign tourists over the next 2 years

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/tourism-operators-expect-recovery-two-years-best.html

10 May aviation

Korean Air will reopen its Seoul – Yangon route in June

Source: simpleflying.com/korean-air-international-resumptions/

9 May inbound

A fund of $2.5 million USD has been set up in a 3rd phase of economic stimulus to support loans to 111 industrial and tourism companies

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/business/business-roundup/irrawaddy-business-roundup-18.html

6 May inbound

According to research by HVS, the Average Daily Rate (ADR) at Myanmar hotels fell by 15.1%, and the Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) dropped by 58.8% in March YoY

Source: www.hospitalitynet.org/opinion/4098523.html

5 May aviation

The first airport in Chin State is still expected to open in June, despite virus setbacks

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/construction-chin-state-airports-make-progress-despite-covid-19.html

5 May inbound

Myanmar Tourism Marketing have launched twice-weekly online panels to update travel partners on how the country is handling COVID-19

Source: www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/05/myanmar-presents-twice-weekly-online-updates/

4 May inbound

More businesses designated as essential have been allowed to open, including hotels, motels and guesthouses

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-govt-lists-essential-businesses-prioritized-reopening-amid-covid-19.html

2 May inbound

A 2nd fund of $142.8 million USD is set to be created by the government to help struggling businesses

Source: tin.media/news/details/-myanmar-to-allocate-more-fund-to-provide-loans-to-vulnerable-businesses

2 May inbound

1,480 hotels were closed during March according to the Myanmar Hotelier Association

Source: www.facebook.com/myanmartourismmarketing/photos/pcb.529611137718289/529610261051710/?type=3&theater

30 Apr inbound

More than 500,000 tourism workers may lose their jobs, according to the Union of Myanmar Travel Association (UMTA). They predict at least 6 months for just 10% of tourism operations to start again, whilst 9 months for all to be open once more, whilst they don’t see normality returning until 2023

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-tourism-sector-braced-50-job-cuts-amid-covid-19-downturn.html

26 Apr inbound

The ban on entry from other nationalities has been extended until 15 May

Source: www.thestar.com.my/news/regional/2020/04/26/myanmar-extends-entry-restrictions-for-travellers-due-to-virus-outbreak

24 Apr aviation

IATA’s revised estimates show that passenger demand could fall by 48% in 2020, with a loss of $0.691 billion USD in revenue and 245,200 jobs

Source: www.iata.org/en/pressroom/pr/2020-04-24-01/

23 Apr inbound

Land lease payments for 47 state-owned and private hotels will be deferred for 6 months. However, the Myanmar Hotelier Association has asked for an exemption, rather than just deferment

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/myanmar-hotel-industry-receives-another-lifeline.html

19 Apr aviation

Myanmar National Airline are temporarily suspending all domestic and international flights until 30 Apr

Source: www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com/mna-to-suspend-local-foreign-flights-until-30-april/

16 Apr inbound

Hotel and tour businesses will not have to pay licence fees for one year until 31 Mar 2021

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/hotel-and-tour-businesses-myanmar-get-one-year-exemption-licence-fees.html

12 Apr aviation

The ban on international flights has been extended to 30 Apr

Source: www.mizzima.com/article/yangon-airport-extends-flight-ban-over-covid-19-until-end-month

6 Apr inbound

All civil servants are banned from travelling during Thingyan (Myanmar New Year). State and regional governments have ordered citizens to stay at home from 10 – 19 Apr

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/specials/myanmar-covid-19/myanmar-government-bans-staff-new-year-travel-stop-covid-19-spread.html

2 Apr aviation

All international commercial flights cancelled until 13 Apr. Ministry of Tourism forecasts international arrivals to fall by 50% in 2020

Source: britishchambermyanmar.com/en/news/will-myanmars-covid-19-stimulus-package-protect-key-sectors

2 Apr outbound

$800,000 USD of travel packages have been cancelled between the end of Jan to mid-March, according to the Union of Myanmar Travel Association

Source: britishchambermyanmar.com/en/news/will-myanmars-covid-19-stimulus-package-protect-key-sectors

18 Mar inbound

Myanmar Government has introduced relief measures, including those for tourism businesses: • Covid-19 fund established and funds may be borrowed at interest rate of 1% for one year • Commercial tax and corporate income tax deadlines extended until end of Sep 2020

Source: britishchambermyanmar.com/sites/britishchambermyanmar.com/files/publication_docs/pwc_newsletter_issue_25_1.pdf?fbclid=IwAR2zHaE63aC6Nds8s9beLwrPMyF74IWanfnnlHDMTTZvp628Naqvr9VRiRc

14 Mar inbound

The Ayeyarwady region has banned tour groups from visiting the beaches at Chaungtha, Ngwesaung and Gawyingi Island

Source: www.irrawaddy.com/news/burma/myanmar-bans-beach-tours-amid-covid-19.html?fbclid=IwAR0GAFsq46fCXRvCt-kcqgMgdHThtFK71c1OlZ6OT0b7MXlxVBgKfPiDGiQ

12 Mar outbound

Almost all of the 100,000 air tickets which are usually issued for the Thingyan holidays in Myanmar have been cancelled, according to Daw Hla Darli Khin, managing director at Tour De Myanmar Travels and Tour. The agents face issues getting the refunds back from airlines

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/outbound-tours-thingyan-collapse-amid-covid-19-fears.html

27 Feb inbound

The Myanmar Tourism Federation says that “The virus will affect not just the tourism sector, but also transportation, rentals, restaurants, and so on. It could reduce revenue by 40 to 50 percent or more.” They are urging the government to make plans to mitigate the effect on the tourism industry in Myanmar

Source: www.mmtimes.com/news/covid-19-expected-cut-tourism-revenue-half.html

22 Feb inbound

Entry into Myanmar from Chinese tourists has dropped by 30%, according to the Yangon Region government ethnic Karen Affairs Minister Naw Pan Thinzar Myo. The number of tourists visiting Myanmar from other countries fell by 50%

Source: mizzima.com/article/coronavirus-causes-fall-chinese-tourists-visiting-myanmar-30

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