The Myanmar government is preparing to revive the $3.6 billion Myitsone mega dam project in Kachin State in the country’s north, backed by China, after construction had been suspended for 15 years.
On 3 July 2026, Reuters news agency reported citing two sources that Myanmar aims to complete the Myitsone mega dam project within about eight years. This followed a visit to China last month by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, who currently serves as president, during which discussions were held about reviving this $3.6 billion project, equivalent to roughly 117 billion baht.
Sources said construction will begin soon, with the government to make an official announcement later. The project is one of the largest hydropower developments in Southeast Asia, with a capacity of 6 gigawatts, and was originally planned to export up to 90% of its electricity to China.
A spokesperson for the Myanmar presidential office said the project was among the topics discussed during the China visit. They noted that if completed, it could produce more than half of the country’s total electricity demand, which is around 10 gigawatts. However, the government is assessing environmental impacts, flooding risks, and local community displacement to balance economic benefits with potential adverse effects.
The Myitsone dam project was suspended in 2011 following major public opposition due to concerns it would flood an area roughly the size of Singapore and reflected dissatisfaction with China’s influence in Myanmar, despite China’s persistent promotion of the project.
Source: Reuters