1. The 4th Meeting of “Myanmar-Japan Joint Initiative” was held today in Nay Pyi Taw, with participation of representatives of both public and private sectors of Japan and Myanmar. From Myanmar side, H.E. Daw Lei Lei Thein, Deputy-Minister for National Planning and Economic Development and H.E. Dr. Pwint San, Deputy-Minister for Commerce attended with high dignitaries of relevant ministries. From Japanese side, Mr. Ichiro Maruyama, DCM, Embassy of Japan, accompanied by executive board members of JCCY (Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Yangon), together with JETRO and JICA participated in the discussion.

2. “Myanmar-Japan Joint Initiative”, having started in May 2013, is a forum of discussion among parties of both public and private sectors on concrete measures for accelerating development of investment environment of Myanmar. Since it was launched last year, wide range of business-related issues including visa, trade policy and investor protection measures have been discussed, and Japanese side has proposed an “Action Plan” which incorporates concrete proposals.

3.
(1) At this 4th meeting, participants recognized outcomes of discussion made so far, and JCCY’s views on investment and business environment in Myanmar were reported on.
(2) For instance, while not many (30% of Japanese companies) consider investment and business environment have been improved compared to one year ago, 80% of companies appraise “high attractiveness and potential of Myanmar as an investment destination compared with other ASEAN countries”. Also, 80% has “plan to expand their business”.
(3) Based on these findings, participants had frank exchange of views in such issues as visa/immigration, trade policy, foreign remittance, and taxes.

4. With a view to realize high expectations for investment in Myanmar, participants agreed to continue to discuss with each other on issues of priorities. 　Also, they agreed to hold a general meeting once again in the second half of this year to wrap up outcomes of discussions.