Myanmar and the economic quadrangle cooperation (QEC) : a case study of road utilization in Tachilek-Keng Tung-Mongla

Abstract

The Economic Quadrangle Cooperation (EQC) was initially established to encourage market links by taking advantage of border areas in Myanma, Laos, China, and Thailand. The aim in forming the EQC was to formalize and develop existing cross-border trade, tourism and transport links among member countries. Concerning transport links, the road connecting Mae Sai (Thailand), Tachilek (Maynmar), Keng Tung (Myanmar), Mongla (Myanmar), and Da Luo (China) is considered as the strategic route to encourage project’s activities. This road was officialy opened on 1 July 2004 that the first Thai truck was allowed to transport goods from Thailand all the way to China. Mr. Pinij Jarusombat, Deputy Prime Ministers and Mrs. Saluai, deputy of the Import and Export Department in Xibsongbanna, China, presided over this opening ceremony. Tachilek-Keng Tung- Mongla road is expected to be strategic road for members to encourage trading, hwever, after road use for almost one year, according to statistics collected and field research from this thesis the road is not well famouse and not yet being used to its fullest potential. Concerning this points thesis is finding out the factors and problems that affected unfavourable of road use. The study is provided into 3 sections; trade, tourism, and local village utilization. These sections will explain the situation of road utilization and problems happening while using. However this thesis is also concerned about security issue of Myanmar toward this area, since it is realized Myanmar does not yet fully control this area, using this road will affect political agenda of Myanmar government also. Thus this concerning, to analyze road utilization in Shan State has to based on this political factor of Myanmar government and the sensitiveness of Myanmar toward the area. Thus, political concerning is the framework of this study. This analytical of complexity and relavent of politics and economic of Myanmar will provide a clearer picture of Myanmar’s participation of Economic Quadrangle. This study is attempting to provide information beneficial for EQC and/or other organizations to better enable them to adjust their strategies, policies and approaches to Myanmar.