LFM News Service 4-5-19

ADB Forecasts Myanmar's Economy to Resume Growth This Year
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) expects Myanmar’s economy to resume growth this year and continue to expand in the next thanks to more foreign investment and a positive response to the government’s economic and policy reforms.  Read More

Reaction Mixed to Military's Announcement it Won't Extend Ceasefire
A spokesman for the government said it would not comment on the military’s recent announcement that it will not extend the unilateral four-month ceasefire it started on Jan. 1.  Read More

Floor price set for rice as demand plummets
Prices dived to around K19,000 per pack after the EU in January reinstated tariffs on rice imports from Myanmar and Cambodia. Meanwhile, demand from China has also tapered. At this time last year, long grain rice prices were trading at K26,000 per pack.  Read More

US development fund providing micro lending to small farmers
The Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), the U.S. Government’s development finance institution, has committed $8 million to Proximity Finance to support expanded micro lending to rural borrowers, primarily smallholder farmers, in Myanmar.  Read More

Wild waters: Hpa-an
With stunning karst-dominated landscapes, fantastic local attractions and, for my money, one of the best hotels in the country, Hpa-an in Kayin State is the kind of destination that rewards repeat visits. It really is one of the most magical corners of Myanmar and if you haven’t already been, do yourself a favour and start planning now.  Read More

Nowhere to go: Myanmar farmers under siege from land law
The Myanmar government has tightened a law on so-called 'vacant, fallow and virgin' land, and farmers are at risk.  Read More