Thai Oil English Club
I have spent a lot more time talking to you about Myanmar than any of the other ASEAN countries. The reason for this is that I believe that in the future the relationship between Myanmar and Thailand will be critical to the economic success of Thailand, and that there are many opportunities for Thailand to profit from this. Of course, PTT is already doing business in Myanmar and hopes to do much more in the future.
Here are some tips if you ever go to Myanmar or have to do business there.
• United States dollars are readily accepted anywhere in Myanmar. But make sure that your dollars are not torn or have any bank stamps on them or they will not be accepted
• The Government still controls many industries and businesses, or has regulations covering them. The Myanmar Government is full of rules and regulations and permission for anything takes a long time.
• Most members of the Myanmar Government are former army generals, used to giving orders and getting their own way. Remember this in any negotiations.
• It is customary to shake hands on meeting and saying goodbye. Avoid prolonged eye contact as this is considered threatening and impolite.
• Many people in Myanmar do not have a first name and a last name, but instead have many names. Generally every one of their names has a meaning. Do your homework before the meeting and make sure you know how to address the person.
• If you are meeting a Government Minister, his title is “His Excellency”. So when you meet, you say: “How do you do, Your Excellency.” After the first time you may call him “sir”.
I
Ajarn David