Record high gas and commodities prices threatens livelihoods

June 6, 2022

HURFOM: After more than a year since the military coup, the price of gasoline has reached unprecedented price levels, and some areas are experiencing shortages.

This situation is creating many challenges for motorbike taxi drivers in cities across Mon State.

Before the coup, a liter of gasoline sold for 440 Kayt. A year later the price has risen to 2,000 Kyat/liter.

“Previously, we could transport customers from Kyaikmayaw to Mawlamyine for just 2,500 Kyat and 3,000-Kyat in gasoline was nearly enough for a day. Now, a liter of gasoline is priced at 2.250 Kyat. We must pay 6,500 Kayt in gas for a Kyaikmayaw-Mawlamyine one way trip,” said one motorbike taxi driver.

With such record high prices, a motorbike taxi driver can only earn between 2,000 to 6,000 /day.

“Now, if I want to go to Mawlamyine from my village, I have to fill my motorbike tank and that costs me about 15,000 Kyat. Like gold prices, gasoline prices rise every day. If I have no business to do, I don’t touch my motorbike,” said a woman from Thanbyuzayat Township.

The military junta controls the market of US dollars and gasoline distribution. The results of this degree of centralized economic control have led to a dramatic rise in the price of commodities.

“It costs me nearly about 8,000 Kyat to cook for a day. We struggle for food this year,” said a housewife from Kyaikmayaw Township.

Written by Modinator · Filed Under News