What a misstep on a remote farm in Myanmar taught me about leadership, listening, and last-mile sales The Morning That Felt Different It was the kind of morning I’ve come to know well in rural Myanmar’s dry zone—quiet, golden, and already heavy with heat. The overnight bus from Yangon had dropped me in Magway at 4 a.m. The streets were still asleep, save for the occasional trishaw gliding past. I rented a small motorbike, found a local tea shop that was just beginning to stir, and waited for the first light with a cup of sweet, thick Burmese tea. I’d done this countless times—early field visits that began in silence and dust, long before any office opened. But this visit felt different. I wasn’t here to just observe or support. I was here to quietly assess one of our most promising team leads. Meet “Spiky Head” Everyone on the team called him Spiky Head —a nickname earned as much for his wild, uncombed hair as for his sharp, unfiltered energy. He had outsold everyone in the regi...
Myanmar has endured decades of challenges, from political instability to ongoing civil wars. The 2021 military coup marked a new era of economic turmoil, exacerbating the already difficult circumstances. Today, small businesses in Myanmar face an unprecedented landscape—skyrocketing logistics costs, inflation on basic essentials, and a lack of security. Yet, despite these challenges, entrepreneurs continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability. In this post, I’ll share some personal examples and strategies to help businesses adapt and thrive in such tough times.
Top Challenges Facing Small Businesses in Myanmar
Unstable Logistics and Supply Chains Myanmar’s internal conflict has made travel and transport difficult, with parts of the country deemed unsafe. Logistics costs have surged, putting immense strain on business operations. Delayed deliveries and spoiled goods are now common challenges.
Skyrocketing Costs of Essentials Inflation is driving up the cost of basic goods such as food and medicine, making it difficult for businesses to meet operational needs and maintain profitability.
Insecurity and Fragmented Markets The post-coup rise of armed factions has created unsafe conditions in many regions. This insecurity disrupts local commerce and deters international investment, further destabilizing the market.
Strategies for Resilience in Myanmar's Business Landscape
1. Focus on Essential Products and Services
In times of uncertainty, businesses should prioritize products with consistent demand, such as food, hygiene items, and other cost-effective daily essentials. Leveraging locally available resources can help reduce reliance on expensive imports and mitigate logistics issues.
Example: Unilever’s Shakti Initiative Unilever’s Shakti Initiative in India offers a great example of how businesses can focus on essentials while leveraging local resources. The program trains rural women as micro-entrepreneurs, who sell small, affordable packs of essential goods like soap and shampoo door-to-door. This approach increases product accessibility, while generating income for the entrepreneurs and serving the bottom of the pyramid.
2. Build Resilient Supply Chains
Building strong partnerships with local suppliers and communities can help stabilize supply chains. Collaborative efforts like bulk purchasing and resource-sharing can alleviate some logistical burdens.
Example: Bulk Purchasing in Agriculture As a consultant to agricultural companies, I’ve seen how consolidating purchase orders from multiple shops into a single route can significantly reduce logistics costs. Additionally, coordinating routes to deliver agricultural output to client warehouses ensures efficiency and cost savings.
3. Diversify Revenue Streams
Exploring alternative business opportunities—such as delivery services, repairs, or cross-border sales of local crafts—can provide additional revenue streams and help businesses adapt to an unpredictable market.
Example: Environmental Services Company Diversification A client I’m consulting for—a top environmental services company—successfully diversified into agriculture by turning food waste into organic fertilizers. This pivot allows them to tap into a growing market while maintaining their core environmental mission.
4. Access External Funding
Financial support from microfinance institutions or international NGOs can provide relief in difficult times. Entrepreneurs can also explore grants or programs aimed at businesses in conflict zones.
Example: Yoma Bank’s Grow Together BizPitch Program Yoma Bank’s "Grow Together BizPitch" program supports small businesses and startups in Myanmar by providing a platform for pitching ideas and securing funding. This initiative helps entrepreneurs navigate the current economic challenges.
Example: Impact Hub Myanmar’s Access 2024 Impact Hub Myanmar’s Access 2024 program offers essential business development support, including mentorship and funding opportunities, to help Myanmar-based startups scale up and thrive in these difficult times.
5. Innovate for Sustainability
Cost-cutting measures such as reusing materials or exploring renewable energy options can significantly reduce expenses. Sustainable practices not only help businesses save money but also promote long-term growth.
Example: Business Group Streamlining Operations One business group I work with streamlined its operations by consolidating separate departments into a single shared team. This change reduced operational costs by automating HR functions and combining marketing, sales, and customer service under one roof.
A Path Forward
Despite the extraordinary challenges, the resilience of Myanmar’s entrepreneurs remains a beacon of hope. The country’s strong cultural ties and community networks provide a foundation of support for businesses during these tough times. By focusing on adaptability, innovation, and collaboration, businesses can not only survive but thrive.
By implementing these strategies, small businesses in Myanmar can move beyond survival and begin building a more resilient future. Resilience is not just about weathering the storm—it’s about finding ways to thrive despite it.
Comments
Post a Comment