YANGON, April 27, 2025 — Authorities in Myanmar have taken legal action against 62 shops accused of excessively inflating the prices of construction materials during the country’s earthquake recovery efforts.

Following the devastating earthquake, reconstruction activities have begun across affected areas. In response to widespread complaints of surging prices, responsible agencies summoned importers, distributors, and retailers of construction materials between April 5 and 12, warning them against unjustified price hikes and stockpiling with intent to manipulate the market. Businesses were required to sign formal pledges committing to fair pricing practices, according to a statement issued by the State Administration Council (SAC).

Despite these measures, some business owners continued to sell construction materials at exorbitant rates. Field inspections revealed that 62 shops were profiting excessively from the crisis, prompting authorities to initiate legal proceedings against them.

Officials urged vendors of construction materials, foodstuffs, and consumer goods not to exploit the public's hardship by raising prices unfairly. They also encouraged citizens to report any incidents of unjustified price increases to the relevant administrative bodies for further action.

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