Burma

World Book Index

Introduction

Burma, also known as Myanmar, has a complex and tumultuous history that has shaped its current socio-political landscape. Once a province of British India until 1937, it transitioned to a self-governing colony before gaining independence in 1948. The military's significant involvement in governance and the economy has been a defining characteristic of the nation, particularly following the military coup in 1962, which led to decades of military rule. Although a civilian government was elected in 2015, the military's overthrow of this government in 2021 marked a significant regression in democratic reforms, plunging the country into ongoing conflict and insurgency against the military regime. The situation remains precarious, with the population facing numerous challenges as they navigate the complexities of governance and civil rights.

Neighboring countries

Bangladesh - China - India - Laos - Thailand

Geography

Area
Total: 676,578 sq km
Land: 653,508 sq km
Water: 23,070 sq km

Burma's geographical landscape is characterized by its diverse topography, which includes mountains, valleys, and extensive river systems. The country is bordered by Bangladesh, China, India, Laos, and Thailand, providing it with strategic significance in Southeast Asia. The climate is predominantly tropical monsoon, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The southwest monsoon, occurring from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, while the northeast monsoon, from December to April, results in milder temperatures and lower humidity. This climatic variation plays a crucial role in shaping the agricultural practices and natural resource management within the country. Burma is rich in natural resources, including petroleum, timber, and various minerals, which are vital for its economic development and sustainability.

People and Society

Population
Total: 57,527,139 (2024 estimated)

Ethnic groups
Burman (Bamar) 68%, Shan 9%, Karen 7%, Rakhine 4%, Chinese 3%, Indian 2%, Mon 2%, other 5%

Languages
Burmese (official)

Religions
Buddhist 87.9%, Christian 6.2%, Muslim 4.3%, Animist 0.8%, Hindu 0.5%, other 0.2%, none 0.1% (2014 estimated)

Population growth rate
0.71% (2024 estimated)

Burma's population is a tapestry of ethnic diversity, with the Burman (Bamar) group constituting the majority at 68%. The presence of various ethnic minorities, including the Shan, Karen, and Rakhine, contributes to the rich cultural mosaic of the nation. The official language is Burmese, which serves as a unifying factor among the diverse groups. The predominant religion is Buddhism, practiced by approximately 87.9% of the population, which significantly influences the cultural and social norms of the society. The population growth rate of 0.71% indicates a gradual increase, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities in terms of social services and economic development. As the country grapples with political instability, the societal fabric remains resilient, with communities striving for peace and coexistence amidst adversity.

Government

Government type
Military regime

Capital
Name: Rangoon (aka Yangon, continues to be recognized as the primary Burmese capital by the US Government); Nay Pyi Taw is the administrative capital

Executive branch
Chief of state: Acting President Sr. Gen. MIN AUNG HLAING (since 31 July 2025)
Head of government: Prime Minister NYO SAW (since 31 July 2025)

Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d'Affaires Soe Thet NAUNG (since 24 June 2025)

Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d’Affaires Susan STEVENSON (since 10 July 2023)

The government of Burma is currently under a military regime, which has been in power since the coup in February 2021. The capital city, Rangoon, also known as Yangon, is recognized by the US Government as the primary capital, while Nay Pyi Taw serves as the administrative center. The executive branch is led by Acting President Sr. Gen. MIN AUNG HLAING and Prime Minister NYO SAW, both of whom have been in their positions since July 2025. The political landscape is marked by a lack of democratic governance and ongoing civil unrest, as the military continues to suppress dissent and maintain control over the country. The international community remains watchful of the situation, with diplomatic relations strained due to the military's actions against its own citizens.

Economy

Economic overview
Prior to COVID-19 and the February 2021 military coup, Burma experienced significant declines in poverty, rapid economic growth, and improving social welfare indicators. However, the ongoing underdevelopment, climate change impacts, and unequal investment distribution threaten the sustainability of these advancements. Since the coup, foreign assistance has largely ceased from most funding sources, exacerbating the economic challenges faced by the nation. The economy is now at a critical juncture, requiring urgent reforms and international support to stabilize and promote recovery.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$287.559 billion (2024 estimated)
$290.381 billion (2023 estimated)
$287.624 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$5,300 (2024 estimated)
$5,400 (2023 estimated)
$5,400 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$20.4 billion (2021 estimated)
$17.523 billion (2019 estimated)
$15.728 billion (2018 estimated)

Exports - partners
China 32%, Thailand 16%, Japan 7%, Germany 6%, India 5% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Garments, natural gas, dried legumes, rare-earth metal compounds, precious stones (2023)

Imports
$23.1 billion (2021 estimated)
$17.356 billion (2019 estimated)
$18.664 billion (2018 estimated)

Imports - partners
China 40%, Thailand 18%, Singapore 15%, Indonesia 4%, Malaysia 4% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Refined petroleum, synthetic fabric, fertilizers, crude petroleum, fabric (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.609, ranking it 150th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 131st out of 158 countries tested with a score of 4.228. (more information)