Myanmar's Visa Exemption Policy to Increase Visitor Arrivals from Singapore

The number of Singaporean travelers to Myanmar is predicted to increase by 35% as a result of the new 30-day visa exemption available to citizens of both countries.

Myanmar Minister of Hotel & Tourism H.E. U Ohn Maung, said, "I do expect a 35% increase of Singaporeans travelling to Myanmar if we successfully promote the variety of tourist attractions the country has to offer. Myanmar is safe, excellent to travel the whole year round, and Myanmar food is certainly something to come back for over and over again."

Effective 1 December 2016 , Singaporeans travelling to Myanmar for under 30 days, either for business or leisure, need not apply for a visa.

Myanmar Tourism Marketing (MTM) Chairperson, May Myat Mon Win, said, "We have witnessed a surge of Singaporean travelers and look forward to this growing. We're on a mission to show the world what this hidden gem called Myanmar has to offer; and in doing so, we'd like to dispel some myths about the country. It's not true that you can only visit Myanmar during the dry season. In fact, Myanmar's best kept secret is the green season from June till September."

In 2015, there were 43,000 Singaporeans who traveled to Myanmar. As of August 2016, more than 32,000 Singaporeans have visited the country, an increase of 18% compared to the same period last year.

The main destinations for Singaporeans traveling to Myanmar are Yangon and Mandalay, where there are direct flights from Singapore. While leisure travelers continue to rise, most visits to Myanmar from Singapore are for business, a testament to the strong trade relations between the two countries.

Based on figures from the Myanmar Directorate of Investment and Company Administration (DICA), Singapore is currently the second largest investor in Myanmar after China with over USD$13 billion in foreign direct investment.

MTM Executive Committee member Edwin Briels, who has lived in Myanmar for more than 15 years, said, "Whether it is for business or pleasure, there is so much to see and do in Myanmar . Business visitors who come seeking opportunities in this new market typically set foot in cities like Yangon , Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw. We encourage all visitors to venture out and see more of the country's treasured spots -- the amazing temples of Bagan, the majestic Inle Lake, pristine beaches and breathtaking highlands. Most of all, come to Myanmar to experience the warmth and generosity of the people and a culture unlike any other."

Myanmar Tourism Update 2016

In this video, filmed at JATA Tourism Expo 2016 in Tokyo on 24 September, the Minister tells us about Myanmar's visitor arrival numbers and how they compare with last year.

Podcast (audio only)

See other: HD Videos and Podcasts.

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