Myanmar's President U Min Aung Hlaing has called for stronger government and private sector support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), describing the sector as the backbone of the country's economy and a key driver of employment, industrial development and long-term economic resilience.

Speaking at the World MSME Day 2026 ceremony held at the Myanmar International Convention Centre (MICC-1) in Nay Pyi Taw on June 27, the President said MSMEs account for around 90 percent of businesses in Myanmar and provide nearly 70 percent of total employment, underscoring their vital contribution to national development.

The event was attended by senior government officials, parliamentary leaders, ministers, regional chief ministers, business representatives and MSME entrepreneurs.

Highlighting the government's commitment to strengthening the sector, the President said the establishment of the Ministry of Industry and MSME Development reflects Myanmar's determination to accelerate MSME growth through targeted policies and institutional support.

According to ASEAN News Network (ANN), Myanmar, like several ASEAN economies, is seeking to strengthen domestic industries through MSME-led growth as regional governments place increasing emphasis on value-added manufacturing, digital transformation and resilient supply chains to reduce external vulnerabilities and enhance economic competitiveness.

The President urged entrepreneurs to focus on value-added production using locally sourced agricultural and livestock products to reduce import dependence, expand exports and promote agro-based industries. He also encouraged wider adoption of digital payment systems, e-commerce platforms and modern technologies to improve productivity and market access.

Acknowledging persistent challenges facing the sector, including limited financing, outdated technology, weak supply chains and skills shortages, he called for closer collaboration among government agencies, financial institutions and the private sector to improve access to electricity, energy, raw materials and investment.

The President also promoted the "One Region, One Product" (OROP) initiative, encouraging regions to develop industries based on their unique natural resources and comparative advantages. He further stressed the importance of strengthening linkages between MSMEs and large-scale industries to build domestic supply chains and reduce reliance on imported industrial components and packaging materials.

Reaffirming the government's support for the sector, the President said a vibrant MSME ecosystem would generate employment, increase household incomes and contribute to building a stronger and more self-reliant economy while enhancing the competitiveness of Myanmar's businesses in regional and international markets.

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