Burma Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in burma, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals
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Healthcare
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Burma’s healthcare system remains severely strained following the 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck central Burma on March 28, 2025. The disaster damaged numerous health facilities, exacerbating existing weaknesses in earthquake-affected areas in under-resourced healthcare infrastructure, workforce capacity, and access to essential health services. Shortages of trauma care, surgical equipment, and basic medical supplies have become more acute, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas. Political instability, ongoing armed conflict, and restrictive trade conditions continue to limit the import and distribution of healthcare-related goods. While demand for medical equipment and the country’s healthcare system recovery remains high, the challenging operating environment significantly constrains opportunities for commercial engagement and long-term investment in the sector.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) oversees the healthcare sector through six departments, including the Department of Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Department of Human Resources for Health, the Department of Medical Research, the Department of Medical Services, the Department of Public Health, and the Department of Traditional Medicine. Healthcare services are also delivered by international and local non-governmental organizations such as the Myanmar Red Cross Society, the Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association, civil society organizations and community-based organizations, including ethnic health organizations.   

The 2022 Myanmar Medical Services report indicates approximately 270 private hospitals and over 10,000 private clinics are operating in Burma, predominantly located in major cities like Yangon, Mandalay, and Naypyitaw. People living in remote areas, who account for approximately 70 percent of Burma’s total population, often lack adequate health knowledge, access to providers, and a reliable electricity supply to operate medical equipment and store vaccines and medicines. The primary treatment options for people living in remote areas are rural health centers and small private clinics. Wealthy people often fly out of the country to seek higher-quality health care abroad. Thailand is the top destination, followed by India, Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong. For lower and middle-income consumers, medical treatment abroad remains out of reach. 

In addition to acute and unpredictable natural disasters testing the health system, Burma suffers seasonal disease outbreaks such as malaria, dengue fever, cholera, and acute watery diarrhea from persistent heavy rain and flooding. Burma also has one of the highest incidents of tuberculosis in the world.  The country lacks a disease surveillance system capable of early detection and mitigation of these outbreaks.

The most significant challenges in Burma’s healthcare sector are weak enforcement of rules and regulations, poor public health insurance coverage, and a shortage of healthcare providers and supplies. Many healthcare product importers have faced obstacles regarding the importation and registration process. The U.S. Commercial Service advises U.S. firms to check with local distributors/partners and reputable legal firms for detailed information.

Leading Sub-sectors 

Medical Services 

The Burmese healthcare industry is facing a significant shortage of facilities, technology, medical services, qualified nurses, and healthcare professionals. People who can afford high-quality medical services travel to neighboring countries for medical check-ups and treatment, a market estimated at over $600 million per year, demonstrating the country’s need for reliable and high-quality medical services. While pre-service and in-service medical training in Burma remains primarily under the control of the Ministry of Health, there is growing interest in capacity-building, which opens future opportunities for U.S. health education providers, particularly in the private sector and through academic partnerships.

Medical Technology 

Burma lags in the medical technology area, from poor patient data records management to lack of advanced diagnostic treatment methods. Despite many hurdles, Burma’s healthcare system has shown resilience by developing solutions such as telemedicine, mobile clinics, and online medical service platforms. However, limited internet coverage and unstable electricity supply hinder such services in remote areas. 

Medical Devices 

The country presents strong business opportunities for U.S. medical equipment and supplies. Burma’s health sector depends on imported medical equipment and supplies to meet the increasing local demand for high-quality health services. 

Medicines

Burma has a very competitive pharmaceutical market compared to other ASEAN countries. The market is attracting foreign pharmaceutical companies and is dominated by imports. Burma imports about 80 percent of its pharmaceutical products from other countries. Local supplies are mainly produced by the state-owned Myanmar Pharmaceutical Factory.   

There are more than 100 pharmaceutical distributors currently operating in Burma. In addition, there are many generic brands from India, China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Thailand, and Vietnam with significant market shares. Counterfeit products are prevalent, and stricter regulations and enforcement are needed to stop illegal sales. The market is very price sensitive. In addition, due to restrictions on import licenses, currency fluctuations, and logistical challenges, many medicines and medical devices have become unavailable in the local market. Consequently, timelines to restock products can vary significantly, with some returning to shelves within days while others may take several months.

Opportunities 

Given overall needs throughout the healthcare sector, Burma offers significant export opportunities for U.S. firms, especially in medical services, technical expertise, and medical devices, such as diagnostic activities in hospitals and clinics, pharmaceutical production, healthcare infrastructure, and the establishment of private medical institutes and training facilities. Despite the challenges posed by rising inflation and declining individual income, the outlook for the growth of medical services and technologies in the local context remains optimistic. There are opportunities for U.S. manufacturers that supply medicine, medical devices, and related products and accessories. U.S. firms should consult with the Commercial Service team for detailed information. 

Resources 

  • World Health Organization
  • World Bank
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 
     

Contact Information 
U.S. Commercial Service 
U.S. Embassy, Burma 
Email: office.burma@trade.gov 

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