Military council spokesperson Zaw Min Tun has responded to the United States’ announcement of a 40% tax on Myanmar exports, stating that they will negotiate with the US regarding this matter. Former US President Trump sent a letter dated July 7 to coup leader Min Aung Hlaing, notifying that a 40% tax would be imposed on Myanmar exports starting from August 1.
Military circles have been celebrating this correspondence, interpreting it as Trump’s official recognition of Min Aung Hlaing. Military supporters, lobbyists, and the military establishment have been expressing great satisfaction over this development, viewing it as validation of their legitimacy. Pro-military social media channels have been actively promoting this interpretation of events.
Military council spokesperson Zaw Min Tun confirmed receipt of the letter and provided details about the trade volume between Myanmar and the United States. He stated that trade amounted to approximately US$701.9 million in the 2023-2024 fiscal year and over US$588.3 million in 2024-2025. He expressed hope that negotiations would yield results beneficial to both countries.
According to military sources in Naypyidaw, the military council is eager to use this tax issue as a foundation to rebuild relations with the United States. The sources indicate that the council aims to improve bilateral relations through engagement and may even attempt to pursue the removal of Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun from the United Nations. The military council appears to view this tax correspondence as an opportunity to establish diplomatic connections and potentially gain international recognition, despite their continued oppression of Myanmar’s civilian population.
