MYAWADDY------Border trade between Myanmar and Thailand was suspended due to the temporary closure of Myanmar-Thai No-2 Friendship Bridge from October 19th to 25th.

After two Myanmar truck drivers leaving for Thailand had tested positive for COVID-19, the Thai National Security Council together with the Health Department tested all Myanmar citizens living in Mae Sot for coronavirus free of charge program. Among Myanmar citizens, three tested positive for COVID-19. Afterwards, Mae Sot locals staged two protests, calling for temporary closure of No.2 Friendship Bridge.

“Locals from Mae Sot held protests on October 11th and 14th. The protests aimed for control of COVID-19 and thus it became the closure of No.2 Friendship Bridge. In Thailand, there are 33 cargo gates which import goods from Thailand to Myanmar. Those gates are official for Thailand. But, it isn’t for Myanmar. Thailand limited the import passing through 33 cargo gates. However, Thailand temporarily suspended the export and import via No.2 Friendship Bridge,” said Administrator Tayzar Aung from Myawaddy District.

As border trade ceased temporarily at the No.2 Friendship Bridge, the boat plying service between two borders across the Mori River also closed.

Locals are now worrying about the increase of commodities prices at the local market.

There are two bridges; No.1 and No.2 Myanmar-Thai Friendship Bridges which aim to facilitate transport between Myawaddy and Mae Sot.

Thai authorities had decided to close No.1 Myanmar-Thai Friendship Bridge at Mae Sot on March 21st with an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

However, the returnees were accepted at the No. 2 Friendship Bridge and the small vehicles were also allowed aiming not to lack commodities flow.