Import licenses are being granted for the Ranong (Thailand) - Kawthaung - Yangon (Myanmar) sea trade route after goods undergo inspection at the Kawthaung Check Point.

An instruction has been issued stating that ship owners and cargo owners importing goods via the Ranong-Kawthaung-Yangon border trade route must have their goods inspected at the Check Points in Kawthaung to carry out import licensing and legal trade.

A Kawthaung local stated: "Currently, there are many cargo ships waiting in the waters off Kawthaung. About 40 vessels are waiting. Since August 21, officials from the Ministry of Commerce have been in Kawthaung conducting field inspections and overseeing business activities. However, Ranong-Kawthaung speedboats are allowed to depart only after being inspected in Kawthaung."

It is understood that importers in border trade are being granted import licenses if they have export earnings. Those wishing to import goods must apply for an import license covering all goods they intend to bring in.

A business owner explained: "Goods on the Ranong-Myeik-Yangon border trade route are inspected upon entry in Myeik. They are sealed in Myeik and the seal is checked upon arrival in Yangon for inspection."

The granting of import licenses is intended to allow importers to easily use and transfer their export earnings, eliminating the need to illegally purchase foreign currency. It is also expected to stabilize foreign exchange rates, boost trade, and stabilize or reduce commodity prices.

According to the current situation, the Ranong-Kawthaung-Yangon and Ranong-Myeik-Yangon border trade routes are considered more cost-effective and secure travel routes compared to the Myawaddy route.