U.S. Ambassador to Myanmar Scot Marciel and U.S. Ambassador to Singapore Kirk Wagar led an American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (AmCham Singapore) organized business delegation to Myanmar comprised of 19 business leaders representing U.S. member companies from various industries. The delegation visited Yangon and Nay Pyi Taw from June 6 to 9 according to a recent statement.
As a testament to the interest of American business in the Myanmar market, this is the second business mission AmCham Singapore has organized to the country following a successful mission in August 2012. The mission afforded businesses the opportunity to learn more about the economic transformation and political reforms in Myanmar under its new leadership. The delegates met with senior-level government and business leaders and had the opportunity to get a better understanding of the nation’s strengths, constraints, opportunities and risks as a frontier market the statement said.
“As a fast-developing country with a population of over 50 million that is undergoing dramatic, positive change, Myanmar offers many opportunities for U.S. companies, which in turn can contribute significantly to Myanmar’s own progress by bringing high standards, the best technology, and top-notch business practices to the country,” said U.S. Ambassador to Myanmar Scot Marciel.
“Myanmar’s new government is working to bring economic prosperity and opportunity to the people of the country and the right policies will attract investments from multinational companies across a variety of sectors,” he added. “There is strong demand for the type of responsible, transparent investments that American companies are known for across the region.”
“This is the second business mission I have had the opportunity to lead with AmCham Singapore and it is a tremendous time to be here in Myanmar,” said Kirk Wagar, U.S. Ambassador to Singapore. He continued, “Over and over again, I hear from American companies with regional headquarters in Singapore how interested they are in learning what plans the new administration in Myanmar has for the country’s development. Hearing first-hand from ministers and parliamentary officials over the past few days has been enlightening.
Myanmar still has many challenges, but from our meetings it is clear that the country is ready to partner with foreign investors to attempt to tackle them head-on.”
The mission included briefings with local chambers of commerce and country experts, networking with businesses operating in Myanmar, and discussions with government leaders.