The meaning of Myawaddy can be understood through the recent events involving rebel groups in Myanmar. Last October, the Arakan Army (AA) and other rebel groups launched Operation 1027, a major offensive that resulted in the resistance taking control of military-held areas along the border with China. The Karen National Union (KNU) also joined the offensive, citing the opportunity presented by the AA’s success in Arakan.
The resistance forces have been successful in their offensives, with Lalita Hanwong, an assistant professor at Kasetsart University, noting that the junta is fighting on multiple fronts and struggling to regain towns seized by the rebels. In the battle for Myawaddy, the KNU-led forces were able to encircle and eventually take over the town, prompting speculation about the junta’s next move. Some 200 junta troops remain trapped near a bridge between Myawaddy and Thailand, with the possibility of surrendering to either the Thais or the KNU.
The junta is expected to attempt to retake Myawaddy in the coming weeks to prevent resistance forces from accessing a crucial highway that runs through Myanmar. The town is a critical trading center and serves as the main gateway to Southeast Asia for the junta. Around 14% of Myanmar’s total trade via land borders passes through Myawaddy, highlighting its importance in terms of trade and commerce. Additionally, control of territory near borders can be lucrative, with allegations of senior KNA leaders profiting from illegal activities in the region.
Despite the resistance forces’ control of Myawaddy, questions remain about the customs revenue collected at border points and how trade is being managed in the areas they control. The ISP think-tank reported that trade at some crossings has been suspended, raising concerns about the impact on the local economy. The KNU’s political administrator is expected to assume control of Myawaddy once the military operation is concluded, indicating a shift in power dynamics in the region.
Overall, the events surrounding Myawaddy and the ongoing conflict between rebel groups and the military highlight the strategic importance of the town and its impact on trade and commerce in Myanmar. The junta’s efforts to regain control and the resistance forces’ determination to hold on to Myawaddy underscore the complex dynamics at play in the region. The outcome of these power struggles will have significant consequences for the future of Myanmar and its relations with neighboring countries.
