Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market Outlook to 2029

The report titled “Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market Outlook to 2029 – By Mode of Transport, By Type of Warehousing, By End-User Industries, By International and Domestic Freight, and By Region” provides a comprehensive analysis of the logistics and warehousing sector in Myanmar. The report covers an overview and genesis of the industry, overall market size in terms of revenue, market segmentation, key trends and developments, regulatory landscape, customer level profiling, issues and challenges, and comparative landscape including competition scenario, cross comparison, opportunities and bottlenecks, and company profiling of major logistics and warehousing service providers in the country. The report concludes with future market projections based on revenue, by segment and region, cause and effect relationships, and success case studies highlighting major opportunities and cautions.

Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market Overview and Size

The Myanmar logistics and warehousing market reached a valuation of MMK 3.7 Trillion (approx. USD 1.75 Billion) in 2023, driven by trade liberalization, infrastructure development, and increased regional connectivity under initiatives like the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC). The market is characterized by key players such as Kerry Logistics, DB Schenker, CEVA Logistics, RMA Group, and DHL. These companies stand out for their diversified logistics solutions, regional networks, and investment in last-mile delivery and cold chain infrastructure.

In 2023, Kerry Logistics expanded its warehouse footprint in Yangon Industrial Zone, integrating digital inventory management systems to improve efficiency and reduce turnaround times. Yangon, Mandalay, and Thilawa SEZ remain key logistic hubs due to their proximity to ports, trade routes, and industrial activity.

Market Size for Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Industry on the Basis of Revenue in USD Billion, 2018-2024

What Factors are Leading to the Growth of Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market:

• Trade Expansion and Regional Connectivity: Myanmar's strategic geographic location linking Southeast Asia, China, and India has positioned it as a crucial transit route. Under the Belt and Road Initiative, investments in highways, ports, and rail are supporting cross-border trade. In 2023, over 62% of Myanmar’s freight volume was linked to international trade activity, particularly with China and Thailand.

• Rising Demand from E-Commerce and Retail: With over 7 million digital buyers in 2023 and growing smartphone penetration, Myanmar’s e-commerce sector is driving demand for urban warehousing and last-mile delivery services. Online platforms like Shop.com.mm and rgo47 have increased their reliance on 3PL providers to ensure timely and efficient deliveries, fueling logistics growth.

• Government Policy and SEZ Development: The Myanmar Investment Commission (MIC) has approved several incentives for logistics companies including tax holidays, land lease support, and foreign ownership allowances in SEZs. These reforms have encouraged private investments and partnerships in logistics infrastructure development.

Which Industry Challenges Have Impacted the Growth for Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market

• Underdeveloped Infrastructure: Despite ongoing investments, Myanmar still faces major infrastructure limitations across roadways, railways, and port connectivity. According to industry estimates, over 45% of freight routes suffer from poor road conditions, increasing transit time and vehicle wear-and-tear. These bottlenecks hamper efficient cargo movement, especially in rural and remote regions.

• Political Instability and Security Risks: The political landscape has created an unpredictable business environment. As per a 2023 report, nearly 30% of logistics firms reported disruptions in operations due to security-related concerns or regional transport restrictions. This poses a major hurdle for foreign investors and large-scale supply chain expansion.

• Fragmented Market and Informal Operators: The dominance of small-scale and informal logistics providers makes standardization and service quality inconsistent. Approximately 60% of local logistics businesses operate without formal licenses or adherence to global standards, creating inefficiencies, especially in time-sensitive or high-value goods transportation.

What are the Regulations and Initiatives which have Governed the Market:

• Myanmar Investment Law and Logistics Liberalization: Under the Myanmar Investment Law, 100% foreign ownership is permitted in the logistics sector (excluding road transport). This has encouraged the entry of regional logistics players and led to joint ventures in areas like last-mile delivery and warehousing. As of 2023, over 20 new FDI applications were approved under this framework, signaling increasing investor interest.

• SEZ and Free Trade Zone Incentives: The government has prioritized the development of Thilawa, Dawei, and Kyaukphyu SEZs, offering tax holidays, duty exemptions, and expedited customs processing. These areas are expected to anchor the country's future logistics infrastructure. In 2023, Thilawa SEZ alone handled 40% of Myanmar’s containerized trade.

• Customs Modernization Program: Supported by international bodies like the World Bank and JICA, Myanmar is implementing an automated customs clearance system (MACCS) to streamline cross-border processes. By the end of 2023, clearance time at major ports reduced by 20–25%, leading to improved cargo throughput.

Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market Segmentation

• By Mode of Transport: Road transport dominates Myanmar's logistics sector due to its flexibility, cost-efficiency, and deep penetration into rural and semi-urban areas. Trucks and light commercial vehicles are widely used for both short-haul and long-distance cargo. However, road logistics often face delays due to poor infrastructure in interior regions. Sea and inland waterways play a significant role, especially for international freight, with ports like Yangon and Thilawa handling the bulk of import/export cargo. Air freight, while limited in volume, is crucial for time-sensitive and high-value goods, particularly pharmaceuticals and electronics. Rail logistics remains underutilized due to outdated infrastructure but is gaining attention with ongoing modernization plans under BRI initiatives.

• By Type of Warehousing: General warehousing services make up the largest segment, offering storage for non-specialized goods like garments, retail inventory, and household items. These warehouses are common near industrial clusters and consumption hubs such as Yangon, Mandalay, and Bago.
  Cold chain warehousing is an emerging segment, driven by demand from the food processing, fisheries, and pharmaceutical industries. In 2023, cold storage facilities grew significantly, particularly around ports and SEZs.
  Bonded warehouses are primarily used for re-export trade and imported goods awaiting duty clearance, mostly in SEZs and port cities.

• By End-User Industries: The retail and FMCG sectors are major users of logistics and warehousing, contributing significantly due to the rise in modern trade formats and e-commerce penetration. Agriculture and food processing industries rely on bulk storage and temperature-controlled supply chains to maintain quality during transport and storage. Pharmaceuticals and healthcare logistics have also grown, driven by new compliance requirements and increasing urban demand. Automotive and electronics sectors continue to rely on organized warehousing for spare parts distribution and just-in-time logistics.

Competitive Landscape in Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market

The Myanmar logistics and warehousing market is moderately fragmented, with a mix of international 3PL players, regional operators, and local logistics firms. However, recent government liberalization and infrastructure upgrades have encouraged the entry of global players and digital logistics startups, making the ecosystem more competitive and diversified.

Some of the recent competitor trends and key information about major players include:

• Kerry Logistics: A major logistics provider with strong presence across ASEAN, Kerry expanded its warehousing space in Yangon by 30% in 2023, focusing on e-commerce fulfillment and pharma logistics. The company introduced temperature-controlled facilities and digital inventory systems to improve operational efficiency.

• RMA Group: RMA has invested in fleet expansion and last-mile capabilities, especially for FMCG and cold chain services. In 2023, the company began trial runs of EV delivery vehicles in Yangon and Mandalay, positioning itself as a sustainable logistics provider.

• DB Schenker: Known for its multimodal logistics solutions, DB Schenker experienced a 22% increase in demand for cross-border trucking services with Thailand and China in 2023. The company is investing in smart freight tracking and warehouse automation solutions to boost regional competitiveness.

• CEVA Logistics: CEVA strengthened its Myanmar operations with the launch of a new 3,000 sqm bonded warehouse at Thilawa SEZ. The facility supports automotive, industrial, and retail clients, focusing on integrated logistics and customs clearance services.

• Ever Flow River Group (EFR): One of Myanmar's largest domestic logistics players, EFR operates across freight forwarding, warehousing, and customs brokerage. In 2023, it partnered with regional fintech providers to offer digitized payment solutions for SMEs, enabling faster and more secure transactions.

• Yamato Transport: The Japanese logistics giant has been focusing on cold chain delivery and high-precision last-mile services in urban areas. Their 2023 collaboration with local courier partners helped expand network coverage to over 120 townships, improving rural connectivity.

What Lies Ahead for Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market?

The Myanmar logistics and warehousing market is projected to witness steady growth through 2029, driven by regional trade expansion, infrastructure upgrades, and digital transformation. The sector is expected to grow at a moderate CAGR as both domestic and international firms invest in supply chain efficiency and connectivity.

• Expansion of Cross-Border Trade and Economic Corridors: As regional cooperation deepens under the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC), India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway, and ASEAN connectivity programs, Myanmar is poised to become a strategic logistics hub. Increased cross-border trade will drive demand for integrated logistics and multimodal transport systems.

• Digitalization and Automation of Warehousing: The adoption of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Internet of Things (IoT), and automation tools is expected to rise significantly by 2029. These technologies will enhance inventory accuracy, reduce human error, and increase throughput across major logistics hubs like Yangon, Thilawa, and Mandalay.

• Growth of Cold Chain and Pharmaceutical Logistics: With growing demand for quality healthcare, food exports, and vaccines, cold chain logistics will emerge as a high-growth subsegment. Government mandates on food safety, pharma compliance, and vaccine distribution will push investment in refrigerated storage and temperature-controlled distribution networks.

• Increased Role of 3PL and E-Commerce Fulfillment: As e-commerce continues to expand, there will be a sharp rise in third-party logistics (3PL) providers offering warehousing, last-mile delivery, and reverse logistics. By 2029, it is anticipated that 3PLs will manage more than 40% of e-commerce logistics volumes, especially in urban areas.

Future Outlook and Projections for Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market on the Basis of Revenues in USD Billion, 2024-2029

Myanmar Logistics and Warehousing Market Segmentation

• By Mode of Transport:
  o Road Freight
  o Rail Freight
  o Air Freight
  o Sea and Inland Waterways
  o Multimodal Logistics
• By Type of Warehousing:
  o General Warehousing
  o Bonded Warehousing
  o Cold Chain Warehousing
  o Distribution Centers
  o Container Freight Stations (CFS)
  o E-commerce Fulfillment Centers
• By End-User Industry:
  o Retail & FMCG
  o Agriculture & Food Processing
  o Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare
  o Automotive
  o Electronics & Consumer Durables
  o Industrial & Manufacturing
  o Apparel and Textiles
• By Freight Flow:
  o Domestic Logistics
  o International / Cross-Border Logistics
  o Import-Oriented
  o Export-Oriented
  o Transit Cargo
• By Ownership Structure:
  o Third-Party Logistics Providers (3PL)
  o In-House Logistics / Captive Units
  o Joint Ventures
  o Government-Operated Facilities
• By Region:
  o Yangon
  o Mandalay
  o Bago
  o Shan
  o Ayeyarwady
  o Thilawa SEZ

Players Mentioned in the Report:

Freight Forwarding Companies

• Golden Star Myanmar Company Limited
• Radius Myanmar Services Co., Ltd.
• Success Partners Co., Ltd.
• Reliance Myanmar Logistics Co., Ltd.
• M5 International Co., Ltd.
• West East Freight Forwarding Co., Ltd.
• ZNT Transportation & Logistic
• Wings of Golden Eagle Freight Forwarding Services Co., Ltd.
• DB Schenker Myanmar
• Rhenus Myanmar Co., Ltd.
• DHL Global Forwarding Myanmar
• Kuehne + Nagel Myanmar
• JSL Global Myanmar Co., Ltd.

Warehousing Companies

• Unilink Logistic Warehouse (Haven Group)
• CJ Logistics RT Myanmar
• Pebsteel Myanmar Warehouses
• Zamil Steel Myanmar Warehouses
• CEA Project Logistics (Myanmar)
• DB Schenker Myanmar
• Rhenus Myanmar Co., Ltd.
• DHL Global Forwarding Myanmar
• Kuehne + Nagel Myanmar

E-Commerce Logistics Companies

• Yusen Logistics Myanmar
• DHL Express Myanmar
• Ninja Van Myanmar
• Local last-mile providers (e.g., Mobile-based couriers)
• FreightAmigo (digital logistics platform)

Express Logistics Companies

• DHL Express Myanmar

• FedEx Myanmar

• Aramex Myanmar

• UPS Myanmar

• Ninja Van Myanmar

Key Target Audience:

• Logistics and Transportation Companies
• Warehousing and Cold Chain Providers
• E-commerce and Retail Companies
• International Development Organizations
• Industrial and SEZ Developers
• Government Ministries and Regulatory Bodies (e.g., Ministry of Transport and Communications)
• Investors and Private Equity Firms
• Research and Consulting Institutions

Time Period:

• Historical Period: 2018–2023
• Base Year: 2024
• Forecast Period: 2024–2029