Source: McKinsey Global Institute CityScope Database 2.0; Pike Research; Japan International Corporation
Agency; McKinsey Infrastructure Practice benchmarks per asset type; McKinsey Global Institute analysis
Box 1B. Myanmar
The current infrastructure market in Myanmar is very small, with 2011 spend
estimated at US$ 800 million, reflecting the current 87 per cent rural population and
smaller cities. However, the country has the potential to quadruple the size of its
economy from US$ 45 billion in 2010 to more than US$ 200 million in 2030. In order
to support this projected economic growth, Myanmar’s infrastructure stock needs to
increase in line with the ambitious GDP growth target of 8 per cent.
In a recent McKinsey Global Institute report on Myanmar3, it was estimated that
the country will need a total infrastructure and real estate investment of US$ 320
billion between 2010 and 2030. About 60 per cent of this investment needs to be in
residential and commercial real estate; however, power plants, water infrastructure,
road and rail networks will also need substantial investment. Large cities alone will
need about 45 per cent of the estimated infrastructure investment to cater to the
new and fast growing urban population.
Note: Numbers may not sum due to rounding.
Several multi-billion dollar megaprojects are being planned by the government.
Examples include the US$ 50 billion Dawei special economic zone in close
collaboration with the Thailand government, Sittwe port on the Indian Ocean, and an
industrial zone at Kyaukpyu. Private sector companies and other Asian governments
have moved quickly since 2011 to offer debt relief and financing, with Japan leading
the way. Thailand raised its foreign-direct investment in Myanmar (currently second
to China) with PTT and other large Thai firms looking to invest in construction,
refining and electricity.
The country needs to move quickly and invest in infrastructure that can spur
economic development and commerce, especially given its strategic location and
immense potential.