Myanmar moves to revive $3.6 billion China-backed Myitsone Dam project

Wednesday 01 July 2026 - 08:13

By: Sahili Aya

Myanmar moves to revive $3.6 billion China-backed Myitsone Dam project

Myanmar's government is preparing to revive the long-delayed Myitsone hydropower project, a $3.6 billion dam backed by China that has remained one of the country's most controversial infrastructure developments for more than a decade.

According to sources familiar with government discussions, authorities are aiming to complete the project within approximately eight years. The renewed push follows a recent visit by President Min Aung Hlaing to China, where infrastructure cooperation featured prominently in bilateral relations.

Located in Kachin State in northern Myanmar, the Myitsone Dam has long been viewed as a strategically important project for China, which has sought to develop the massive hydroelectric facility as part of broader energy and investment ties with its southern neighbor.

Officials involved in public consultation panels reportedly said meetings held in Kachin State indicated support for restarting the project. However, the consultations have been met with skepticism from civil society organizations and local advocacy groups, many of which continue to oppose the development.

Critics argue that the dam poses significant environmental, social and cultural risks, including potential displacement of communities, impacts on biodiversity and concerns over the management of the Irrawaddy River, one of Myanmar's most important waterways.

The project was suspended more than a decade ago after widespread public opposition, becoming a symbol of domestic resistance to large foreign-backed infrastructure developments. Its possible revival is therefore expected to reignite debate over economic development, environmental protection and national sovereignty.

The renewed effort also reflects China's continuing interest in expanding strategic infrastructure investments in Myanmar despite ongoing political instability and armed conflict in several parts of the country.

If construction resumes as planned, the Myitsone Dam would rank among Southeast Asia's largest hydropower projects and could play a significant role in regional electricity generation. Nevertheless, its future is likely to depend not only on engineering and financing but also on public acceptance and the broader security situation in Kachin State.