Myanmar
Implementation of the Global Strategy in Myanmar
62% employed in agriculture (1998)
19% land area devoted to agriculture (2009)
Challenges
Myanmar is at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia and is a country rich in natural resources that has a strong agricultural sector. The rural population is vital to the country's economy, comprising more than 67 percent of all citizens.
The statistics system for agriculture in Myanmar is decentralized and the country doesn't have a national strategy for the development of statistics, though one is currently being designed. In addition, Myanmar has a lack of both human and financial resources for statistics. Improving the skills and knowledge of those charged with statistics is important, as well as improvements in their official dissemination throughout the country.
Current Work
Though work has been delayed in Myanmar, country activities began in 2015. The Global Strategy in Asia Pacific is currently finalizing an In-depth Country Assessment (IdCA) and a country proposal, partnering with the Central Statistics Organization and the Department of Agricultural Land Management and Statistics. Recommendations for short-term project proposals are expected to be finalized and endorsed in the first half of 2016.
Achievements
Implementation of activities in Myanmar is still in the early stages. Two reports currently being drafted, however, have led to steps forward in implementation of a strategic plan for agricultural and rural statistics (SPARS): an IdCA and a SPARS draft roadmap. The roadmap, assessment and a country proposal for Myanmar are expected to be finalized and put into action in the first half of 2016.