The recent by-election results appear to mark a watershed moment in the country's recent reform drive, with positive implications for both the political system and the state's improving relationship with the international community. The impact on Myanmar's investment prospects will be closely watched, with investors particularly interested in whether or not EU and US economic sanctions will be lifted. According to BMI, Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) has a history of poor market accessibility and many hope that the country will now emulate the success of countries such as Thailand and Vietnam, fuelled by hopes that the country is finally emerging from decades of isolation to join the ranks of Asia's economic powerhouses.

While a timetable is still hard to pin down, sanctions are expected to be drawn down incrementally over the course of the coming year. The report recognises key political and geopolitical factors that will drive or constrain Myanmar's reforms for the changing nation and identify the challenges faced by investors as a result of Myanmar's business environment.

"Myanmar Awakens: Unearthing Asia's Hidden Gem" assesses the 'new era' in sight and as seen in other resource-rich frontier markets, BMI expects a number of key sectors to dominate investor attention in the short to long term, should there be a relaxation of the US and EU economic sanctions.
 
BMI's portfolio of products provides comprehensive analysis across emerging market economies and enables global investors, emerging market strategists and decision-makers across the corporate spectrum to assess and evaluate global political and economic risks and aid strategic planning activities over the short, medium and long term.

About Business Monitor International
Business Monitor International (BMI) established in 1984 with headquarters in London and offices in Singapore and New York. It is recognised as a leading independent source for analysis and forecasts on Country Risk and Industry, spanning 175 countries. BMI provides research to multinational corporations, banks, funds, research centres and governments in 140 countries around the world, including more than 400 of the Fortune Global 500 companies. The company was awarded the Queen's Award for Export Achievement in 1997.

PR contact:
Simon Elgar
Senator House
85 Queen Victoria Street
EC4V 4AB
London
United Kingdom
+44 (0)20 7248 0468