Mawlamyine, March (28)
As the fighting in Kayin State has led to the suspension of access to the Kawkareik-Myawaddy Asia Highway, the price of Thai goods will get higher, the traders said.
The KNU announced that it will suspend the use of the Kawkareik-Myawaddy Asia Highway and the Myawaddy-Wal Lay Road from March 27 due to a huge influx of military troops into Dooplaya District of a KNU-controlled area.
The road is temporarily closed, and the KNU has called on the people to work together to prevent the military council from exploiting the needs of the people.
Traders said prices could rise further if imports are not allowed.
“This order was issued because of previous arson attacks. The cars were set on fire. This time, no driver dared to proceed. Because there is no flow of goods at the moment, the merchants will raise prices. It is common practice. If Myawaddy Road is not open, those who have the goods will sell them at a higher price,” he said.
At present, there is no shortage in the market due to the stockpiling of goods. And depending on the number of days the route is closed, the commodity prices could skyrocket, he said.
In Mon State, Thai products such as basic foodstuffs, medicine, cosmetics, consumer goods and construction materials are mainly imported through the Myawaddy border.
News – Than Lwin Times