Govt 'still backs project'
Myanmar's government last week insisted that it still supports the mega Dawei port project and is confident that tax breaks will be sufficient to attract foreign capital to the Dawei Special Economic Zone (DSEZ).
“It’s about tax incentives, including income and import duties on raw materials, for investments in the DSEZ. The tax exemption will be given for 10 years – possibly plus another 10 years,” Tin Maung Swe, deputy rail transport minister and chairman of Myanmar’s Supporting Working Body for Special Economic Zone, told reporters.
“I’m here. This is my government. I will do my best. I’m fighting for the project,” he said when asked whether Myanmar still plans to continue with the project.
About 6 billion kyat or US$7 million in compensation was paid recently for villagers’ relocation, he said.
The rates of compensation varied because it covers not only land, but also the different kinds of crops that farmers grow, such as cashew nuts and rubber, he said.
The compensation to be given to villagers is fair, as the policy comes under the Supporting Working Body, which consists of representatives of agencies and village elders, he added.
