Union of Myanmar (Burma)

Union of Myanmar (Burma)

History of Relations

Diplomatic relations with Myanmar were established in April 1995 and Myanmar's Embassy in South Africa was opened in June 1996. Ambassador Pheto presented her credentials as non-resident Ambassador to the Union of Myanmar on 16 September 2002.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Myanmar (Non-resident)

H E Mr G Q M Doidge
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of South Africa

Myanmar Representation in South Africa

H E Mr M Swe
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Union of Myanmar

Travel Info

Tourist information for Myanmar can be obtained from the Myanmar Tourism
Promotion Board internet website at http://www.myanmartourismboard.com

South African nationals visiting Myanmar are strongly advised to exercise a high level
of personal security awareness at all times. In May 2005, there were three explosions in
Yangon, two in shopping malls and one at a trade fair in which a number of people
were killed and injured.

The political situation in Myanmar remains unsettled and there are stringent
restrictions on freedom of movement, association and speech. Visitors are strongly
advised not to photograph military installations or personnel as well as power plants
and bridges.

Travel within Myanmar is restricted to officially designated tourist areas.

Visa Requirements for South Africans

For more information contact the Embassy of Myanmar in Pretoria.

Health Requirements

Medical facilities may not be readily or reliably available. Tourists are advised to carry their own medicines. Because malaria and AIDS are serious problems, precautionary measures should be taken. (Dengue fever or DHF). There is no immunization against DHF.

It is strongly recommended that comprehensive travel and health insurance be obtained which would include emergency air evacuation by a recognised carrier. Prospective travellers should check with their insurer to make sure that their policy meets their needs.

For further information go to Travelers' Health.

Climate Info

Myanmar has three distinct seasons, with the rainy season starting in May and lasting until October. The winter season starts in November and lasts until February. From March until May, Myanmar experiences hot summers.

For up-to-date weather information click here.

Currency Info

The national currency is called the Kyat (MMK). It is recommended that visitors bring
with them sufficient cash in US Dollars to meet their expenses as the exchange of other
foreign currencies is often time consuming and very difficult. Authorised money
changers will usually only accept US Dollars in cash. The FEC (Foreign Exchange
Currency) in equivalents of US$1, US$5 and US$10 are also used in Myanmar along
the Kyat. 1 FEC is equal to US$1,00 and can be used for payment of purchases
throughout the country. Neither FECs nor Kyat can be converted to any other
currency. There are no ATMs in Myanmar.

Credit cards are only accepted at very few major hotels, airlines and some
international shops and restaurants. The exchange of travellers cheques is very
difficult and time consuming.

For current exchange rates click here.

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

No Information

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties please contact the Treaty Section of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) at 012 351 1000.

Trade Info

South Africa mostly exports base metals, chemical products, prepared foodstuffs and mineral products to Myanmar and imports mostly footwear, headgear, vegetable products and machinery from Myanmar.

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Myanmar, visit the website of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa.

Interest Groups and Information

No Information