FAQs
1. Why is Myanmar so poor?
Myanmar's poverty is a complex issue stemming from a confluence of historical, political, economic, and social factors, culminating in its status as one of Southeast Asia's poorest nations. Colonial exploitation laid the groundwork for Myanmar's economic woes. Under British rule (1824–1948), the country, rich in resources such as rice and teak, was exploited. Profits flowed to foreign entities, while indigenous populations saw limited benefit. Infrastructure development focused on extraction, not growth, and the post-independence period of 1948 found the country economically shattered by World War II's devastation.
Subsequent decades were plagued by military mismanagement. Starting in 1962, General Ne Win's "Burmese Way to Socialism" led to isolation, nationalization, and productivity declines. Economic growth stalled, inflation surged. By 1988, widespread protests erupted in response to the impoverished economy, met with brutal suppression. The subsequent junta prioritized control over progress, prioritizing military spending over essential sectors, such as health and education. For example, 13% of GDP was allocated to the military, compared to only 3% for health in 2014.
A fragile period of democratic opening from 2011 to 2021 saw a significant reduction in poverty, from 48% in 2005 to 24.8% in 2017. This improvement was driven by 6% annual economic growth and increased foreign investment. However, the 2021 military coup reversed this progress. The conflict reignited, the currency (kyat) depreciated significantly by nearly a third, and GDP fell by 18% in 2021. Foreign reserves plummeted, investment was withdrawn, and, by 2023, poverty rose to 49.7% according to UNDP estimates. The shrinking middle class, which once served as a buffer against poverty, has shrunk by 50%. As a result, 75% of the population now exists at or near subsistence levels. Ongoing conflict further entrenches Myanmar's predicament. The civil war pits the military junta against ethnic armies and resistance groups, causing widespread displacement (affecting over 3 million people) and significantly hindering trade. Exports decreased by 13% and imports by 20% in early 2024. Agriculture, employing 70% of the workforce, struggles with low yields (rice profits are lower than half those of Cambodia), due to inadequate technology and frequent climate-related impacts like flooding. Urban centers, like Yangon, once economic hubs, have witnessed deterioration in the textile and tourism sectors.
Structural weaknesses persist. Access to basic necessities is limited for many. Only one-third of the population has access to electricity, roads are underdeveloped (only 12% paved), and healthcare infrastructure remains inadequate. High rates of childhood mortality (40 children per 1,000 die before age five) underscore the fragility of the healthcare system. The education sector faces significant challenges, notably after the coup. Half of displaced children are out of school, hindering human capital development for future generations. Corruption and sanctions further restrict foreign aid, while junta policies, such as capital controls, lead to shortages of essential goods like diabetes medication.
To the question "Why is Myanmar so poor?", Myanmar's profound poverty is a complex interplay of past and present. Colonial exploitation created a weak foundation; military rule stifled economic growth; and the ongoing conflict traps the nation in a cycle of chaos and instability. While resolving these issues, such as attaining stability, increased investment, and diversified economic opportunities, remains paramount and challenging. Myanmar Immigration Services notes this context for those navigating its borders.
2. What language is spoken in Myanmar?
Burmese (မြန်မာစာ, Myanma sa) is the official language of Myanmar. It is the official language and mother tongue for approximately 65-70% of the population, particularly the majority Bamar (Burman) ethnic group. This Sino-Tibetan language is written in a script derived from ancient Brahmi, with Pali and Mon influences. It has a syllabic structure and uses tones—high, low, and creaky—to convey meaning. Burmese is used in all aspects of daily life, from marketplaces to government offices, and serves as the medium of instruction in schools.Beyond Burmese, Myanmar 's linguistic landscape is extremely diverse. Over 135 recognized ethnic groups contribute to the more than 100 languages spoken. Notable examples include Shan (Tai-Kadai family, approximately 9% of the population in Shan State), Karen (Sino-Tibetan, with dialects like Sgaw and Pwo, about 7% in the southeastern regions), and Kachin (Jinghpaw, Sino-Tibetan, prominent in the north). The Austroasiatic Mon language remains in use in the south, while Rakhine (Arakanese), a Burmese dialect unique to Rakhine State, is prevalent there. Chin State encompasses dozens of Chin language dialects. For visa support in Myanmar, consider consulting Myanmar Immigration Services.
English, a legacy of British colonial rule (1824–1948), maintains a presence in Myanmar. It 's taught in schools and used in some businesses and tourism sectors, appearing on signs. However, fluency in English is limited outside urban elites and prominent tourist hubs like Mandalay or Bagan, especially given the 2021 coup 's further disruption of education. Other foreign influences, such as Chinese dialects (Mandarin or Hokkien) or Hindi, are present in border trade zones and diaspora communities, but they are less prominent.In practice, Burmese serves as a unifying language for the country, although local ethnic languages thrive alongside it. Many people in Myanmar also speak Burmese as a second language. The continuing civil war (as of 2025) has strengthened regional identities, potentially leading to increased use of Shan or Karen languages in areas under resistance. While knowing some Burmese is appreciated by locals, demonstrating respect for local languages in diverse regions can be even more effective.
3. What do Burmese eat?
Burmese cuisine, from Myanmar, is a flavorful blend shaped by its geography, ethnic diversity (over 135 groups), and its neighbors like India, China, and Thailand. It's built around staples like rice, which dominates meals, often paired with a variety of curries, soups, and sides that balance sour, salty, spicy, and bitter tastes.Rice is the cornerstone—steamed, fried, or as htamin (sticky rice), it's ubiquitous. Noodles are also prominent, especially in dishes like mohinga, often called the national dish: a fish broth soup with rice noodles, lemongrass, banana stem, and toppings like crispy fritters or boiled egg. Another noodle favorite is nan gyi thoke, a chicken curry noodle salad with a thick, spiced sauce.Curries (called "hin") are central to Burmese cuisine, typically less creamy than Thai versions and richer in oil. They're made with fish, chicken, pork, beef, or mutton, seasoned with turmeric, ginger, garlic, and chili, and frequently served with ngapi—a pungent fermented fish or shrimp paste that's a Burmese signature. Ngapi also appears in dips and relishes, like balachaung, a fiery mix of dried shrimp, garlic, and chilies. Fish and seafood are crucial components of the Burmese diet, particularly from inland rivers and the Andaman coast—think freshwater fish curries or nga tha lauk paung (whole stuffed fish). Meat is common but not a daily staple for many; pork hocks or duck might appear in more elaborate dishes. Vegetarians are well-catered for; Burmese cuisine embraces lentils, chickpeas, and vegetables like eggplant or okra, often stir-fried or in light broths. For those planning a trip to sample this cuisine firsthand, Myanmar Immigration Services provides visa consultancy to simplify the journey.
Sides are fundamental to every meal, featuring a spread of ngapi-based dips, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs like cilantro or pennywort. Laphet thoke, a fermented tea leaf salad, stands out–tart, nutty, and crunchy with peanuts, sesame, and fried garlic, it serves as a snack or palate cleanser. Soups, like hingyo (clear) or kya zan hinga (sour with glass noodles), are frequently served with meals, and enjoyed throughout the meal.
Street food is vibrant, with influences from Indian samosas and flatbreads, and Shan tofu (made from chickpea flour) reflecting the Shan State. Desserts are typically simple: mont let saung, a coconut milk drink with jaggery and sago, or sticky rice with palm sugar. Tea, often strong and milky, is the favored beverage, consumed at teahouses that double as social gathering spots.
Burmese dining is family-style, centered around shared dishes with rice as the focal point. Flavors are bold but harmonious, and regional variations exist—coastal Rakhine cuisine features a notable use of spice, while Shan cuisine leans toward milder and sour flavors. This cuisine is also practical; despite economic challenges and conflicts (as of 2025), meals typically employ locally available and affordable ingredients like bamboo shoots or foraged greens. This is the Burmese table: diverse, resourceful, and brimming with character.
4. Is Thailand richer than Burma?
Yes, Thailand is significantly wealthier than Burma (Myanmar) in terms of its economy, particularly when considering GDP per capita and overall economic output as of March 28, 2025. Thailand's 2023 GDP per capita was approximately $7,172 (current US dollars), according to World Bank data. This reflects a robust economy driven by manufacturing, tourism, and exports like electronics and agricultural goods. Its total GDP in 2023 was around $514 billion, making it the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia after Indonesia. Despite experiencing periodic military coups, Thailand has maintained relatively stable macroeconomic policies, which have supported consistent economic growth.
In contrast, Myanmar's 2023 GDP per capita was significantly lower, at about $1,178 (current US dollars), with a total GDP of roughly $66.76 billion. Myanmar´s economy has been severely hampered by the 2021 military coup, which triggered widespread conflict, sanctions from Western countries, and a collapse in foreign investment. Prior to the coup, Myanmar showed promise, with annual growth rates exceeding 6%; however, the ongoing civil war and economic mismanagement resulted in a substantial economic downturn, according to international financial institutions, Myanmar’s economy contracted sharply—by up to 18% in 2021—due to political unrest and sanctions. Myanmar's reliance on agriculture and natural resources like jade and gas has not translated into broad prosperity, particularly amidst the current instability. Individuals seeking information about economic conditions or travel options can find relevant assistance from the Myanmar Immigration Services.
The economic gap is substantial: Thailand's GDP per capita is over six times higher than Myanmar's, and its total economy is nearly eight times larger. Even adjusting for purchasing power parity (PPP), which accounts for cost-of-living differences, Thailand´s figure ($21,142 in 2023) is considerably higher than Myanmar´s (approximately $4,900). Thailand´s urban centers, like Bangkok, thrive with industry and services, while Myanmar faces ongoing struggles with poverty—over a quarter of its population lived below the poverty line even before the coup—and a fractured economy divided between junta-controlled areas and resistance-held regions.
Historical factors further illuminate the difference. Thailand avoided full colonization and pursued export-led growth, while Myanmar, following British rule and decades of isolationist military governance, only briefly opened up after 2011 before experiencing a return to political upheaval. Thailand´s consistent development versus Myanmar´s disruptions significantly explains the large wealth disparity today. Therefore, by most economic measures, Thailand is richer.
5. Should I say Burma or Myanmar?
Whether to use "Burma" or "Myanmar" depends on the context, audience, and intentions, as both terms hold significant historical, political, and cultural weight.
"Myanmar" is the official name, adopted by the military government in 1989 following unrest. The change was presented by the military regime as an effort to reflect a unified national identity across the country’s 135 officially recognized ethnic groups. It's derived from the centuries-old Burmese term "Myanma," which refers to the Bamar (or Burman) ethnic group and the country itself. The change aimed to distance the country from the colonial name "Burma," imposed by the British after their 19th-century conquest. Internationally, "Myanmar" is recognized by the United Nations, most governments, and organizations like the World Health Organization, making it the standard in formal settings, diplomacy, and modern usage.
However, "Burma" remains in casual use and carries a different historical connotation. Rooted in the colonial era and previously the official name until 1989, it possesses a different resonance. Some, including parts of the Burmese diaspora and pro-democracy advocates like Aung San Suu Kyi, prefer "Burma" to express rejection of the military junta's legitimacy. This preference is particularly strong given the lack of public consent for the 1989 rename and the accompanying crackdowns. Countries like the United States and the United Kingdom have sometimes used "Burma" in official statements to signal support for democratic movements, though this approach has evolved with changes in political engagement with the regime.
For those navigating official processes like travel or residency, the Myanmar Immigration Services aligns with the current formal use of "Myanmar"; the "Myanmar" designation is the standard used in official documents.
In practice, when addressing formal situations, traveling, or interacting with official entities (like visa or immigration offices), using "Myanmar" is the safest approach. It aligns with current usage on documents and formal communication.
In casual conversations or with those connected to the pre-1989 era or anti-junta sentiments, "Burma" might be more fitting and even subtly signal political alignment. While locals generally understand both terms, some expats or activists might interpret your choice.
Ultimately, there's no single correct answer. Using "Myanmar" offers precision and reflects current reality, while "Burma" acknowledges historical context and sentiment. Choose the term based on your audience and intent.
6. Why did Burma split from India?
Burma (now Myanmar) did not separate from India in a straightforward division, but rather was detached from British India as part of British imperial administrative adjustments. On April 1, 1937, Burma became a separate crown colony with its own constitution, governed under the Government of Burma Act 1935. While the separation was enacted by the British colonial administration, it was influenced by the growing sense of Burmese nationalism and the desire for distinct governance. Historically, Burma had been a distinct kingdom, with its own culture, language, and political systems, for centuries prior to British colonization, separate from the Indian subcontinent. The British annexed Burma progressively through three Anglo-Burmese Wars (1824–1826, 1852, and 1885), integrating it into British India as a province, governed from Calcutta (now Kolkata) by 1886. This integration was primarily for administrative efficiency, despite Burma's geographic proximity to India and trade links via the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The drive to separate Burma from India stemmed from several factors. In the early 20th century, Burmese nationalists, influenced by figures like U Ottama and the Thakin movement, actively resisted British rule and sought a distinct Burmese identity, though their primary goal was independence, not separation from India. Within British India, Certain Indian administrators and political observers considered Burma’s unique demographic and religious landscape to be administratively misaligned with India's broader colonial governance model, due to its Buddhist majority, distinct languages (unlike Indo-Aryan or Dravidian), and unique socio-political structures. These elements didn't readily fit within India's Hindu-Muslim tensions or nationalist movements. Economically, Burma's rice and teak exports were valuable, but its governance was complex, challenged by ethnic diversity and rebellions like the Saya San uprising (1930–1932), which strained British resources. Information on Myanmar's historical transitions or current entry requirements can be obtained from the Myanmar Immigration Services.
Faced with these pressures and their own strategic considerations, the British reorganized their colonial holdings. The Simon Commission (1927–1930), tasked with reviewing India's governance, recommended separating Burma to allow for more tailored administration. The resulting 1935 Act granted Burma a degree of self-governance, though it remained under British oversight, putting it on a path towards independence. Full independence was achieved on January 4, 1948, after World War II and the Japanese occupation (1942–1945) heightened anti-colonial sentiment. India gained independence in 1947.
Thus, Burma's separation from India was a bureaucratic act by the British, driven by colonial pragmatism and a desire for effective administration. Burmese nationalism played a role in asserting their distinct identity, but the two regions were never truly unified beyond the convenience of imperial rule.
7. Is Burma a Rich or Poor Country?
When people inquire about the economic status of Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, they are seeking to understand its overall wealth. Myanmar presents a complex economic picture – rich in natural resources yet grappling with widespread poverty.
The country possesses abundant jade, rubies, oil, natural gas, and teak, signifying significant potential wealth in raw materials. However, decades of military rule, poor governance, and international sanctions have hindered economic development.Thus, the question of whether Myanmar is rich or poor remains difficult to answer definitively.
On a per capita basis, its GDP is low, estimated at around $1,400 USD, classifying it among the poorer nations of Southeast Asia. A significant portion of the population, approximately 24%, lives below the poverty line, with rural communities disproportionately affected. Ongoing conflict, corruption, and inadequate infrastructure further impede economic progress, despite the country´s inherent resource potential.
Since the 2021 military coup, economic conditions have deteriorated sharply, characterized by inflationary pressures and a decline in foreign investment.Despite its current struggles, Myanmar´s substantial natural resources suggest a potential for significant wealth under more favorable circumstances.
While Myanmar possesses remarkable natural resources and historical economic potential, its current reality paints a picture of deep economic distress. Under ongoing political instability and international isolation, the country remains poor—though rich in what could be, should peace and democracy return.
8. Why Was Burma Changed to Myanmar?
If you've ever wondered why Burma was changed to Myanmar, you're not alone. The official renaming of Burma to Myanmar occurred in 1989 under the military regime, the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC). This change was intended to distance the country from its British colonial past and establish a national identity rooted in local history and language. The name "Burma" emerged during British colonial rule (1824–1948) and is widely considered an anglicized version of "Bamar," referring to the dominant ethnic group. However, the military government contended that "Myanmar," a more formal and literary term also derived from the Bamar language, better represented the country's heritage. They claimed it better encompassed the nation's diverse ethnic landscape, though this assertion is subject to debate among scholars and opposition groups.
The military junta justified the change to "Myanmar" as part of a broader effort to decolonize and assert a localized identity. Other colonial-era names were similarly altered, such as "Rangoon" becoming "Yangon."
Nonetheless, the renaming sparked significant opposition. Pro-democracy groups, including the National League for Democracy (NLD) led by Aung San Suu Kyi, opposed the change, arguing it was a unilateral imposition by an authoritarian regime without public input. Many nations, including the United States, continued to use "Burma" as a statement against the junta's legitimacy.
Despite initial resistance, "Myanmar" gradually gained global recognition, notably following political reforms in the 2010s. However, critics highlight that the renaming coincided with ongoing human rights abuses against ethnic minorities like the Karen and Rohingya, casting doubt on the regime's claims of inclusivity and national unity.
Ultimately, both names hold historical and linguistic roots within the country. The choice between "Burma" and "Myanmar" often reflects a political posture as much as a linguistic preference.
9. How to fill out the Myanmar e-visa
To apply for the necessary Myanmar visa, you must submit a visa application to the nearest Myanmar embassy or consulate in your home country or apply online for a Myanmar e-visa through the Myanmar Immigration Services website.
10. Do children under 14 need a Myanmar visa?
Yes. To apply for a Myanmar visa for a minor, you typically need to follow a similar process as for adults, but with additional documentation specific to minors. Here is a general guide, but be sure to check with the nearest Myanmar embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information:
United States 
United Kingdom 
Viber 
Telegram 
