Energy competition and cooperation in the BIMSTEC region: potential and prospects for Myanmar

Authors

Myat Thein
Myoe Myint

Publication Date

2005-01-01

Abstract

This paper explores the prospects for Myanmar to contribute towards energy cooperation in the region while at the same time promoting sustainable development at home. Myanmar has large unused reserves of renewables, especially hydropower and biomass. Natural gas contributes to export earnings, but oil imports are growing. India and China have large appetites for energy. Myanmar, along with Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, have unused potential which could contribute to export earnings and growth through export to these large neighbors. However the development of these reserves requires regional cooperation, especially for investment in distribution grids. Currently Myanmar's energy policy is unfocused. It should develop petrochemicals, retain some gas for local development, and seek investment from neighbors in hydroelectric development.

DOI

10.58837/CHULA.ARV.18.1.7

First Page

105

Last Page

127

Recommended Citation

Thein, Myat and Myint, Myoe (2005) "Energy competition and cooperation in the BIMSTEC region: potential and prospects for Myanmar," Asian Review: Vol. 18: No. 1, Article 7.
DOI: 10.58837/CHULA.ARV.18.1.7
Available at: https://digital.car.chula.ac.th/arv/vol18/iss1/7