Under current circumstances, cargo trucks trading between Myanmar and Thailand have been allowed to exchange their goods only in the BCF Zone Cargo Terminal compound of No.2 Friendship Bridge aso of October 11, said the commissioner of Myawady District. 

“Currently, bilateral trade is allowed only at the BCF Zone. We have some difficulties. The cargo trucks from both countries have to load and unload goods in the BCF Zone Cargo compound,” said Myawady District commissioner Tay Zar Aung. 

Previously, trucks were allowed to go up to the trade zone in order not to stop the supply chain during the Covid-19 period. However, on October 11, Thailand did not allow cargo trucks from Myanmar to enter Mae Sot and they had to exchange goods in the BCF  Zone Cargo compound. 

Thai authorities initiated the plan as Myanmar sees an increase in Covid-19 cases. Myanmar cargo truck drivers were reportedly unhappy with the plan. 

“Our government allowed them. They must have passes. When we reached the Thai side, their immigration gave us seals so we could go. When we reached the Thai military checkpoint, we were not allowed to go to Mae Sot. We had to turn round. The construction group asked us for 150 baht. Drivers in Myawady said they should not be allowed either. Close the gate if they want to. We travel when we go to the other side. We are exploited there. They ask us for money frequently,” said Myanmar cargo truck driver Than Soe. 

Currently, Thailand does not allow Myanmar trucks into Mae Sot while Thai trucks are not allowed access to the Myawady area. Officials from both countries are still negotiating to solve the problem.