By Ma Ma - Feb 15, 2025

As rental prices have skyrocketed in Yangon, shop rental fees have also surged, making it increasingly difficult for independent retail businesses to stay afloat.

Currently, shop rental prices have more than doubled compared to previous rates, depending on the location and commercial significance of the township.

"A 10x60 ft shop costs at least 350,000 to 400,000 MMK per month on main roads, while some require a one-time deposit of around 3,000,000 MMK, followed by monthly rent payments of 300,000 MMK. Water and electricity bills are separate, while some landlords do not require deposits but demand monthly or six-monthly payments. Now, it's harder to make profits as sales have declined, but we continue operating to sustain our livelihoods," said a shop owner near Than Din Market, Shwe Pyi Thar Township.

This rent increase is not limited to prime locations in central townships but is affecting outer districts as well. Shop rental prices were barely above 100,000 MMK before the military takeover, but they have now more than doubled, and yet demand for rental remains high.

"Prices are rising everywhere now. I don’t want to relocate since I already have loyal customers, but I now have to earn at least 10,000 MMK per day just to cover rent. With declining sales, long-term survival is difficult. I can no longer afford to pay the same wages as before even when hiring employees, and with low sales, it's unsustainable in the long run," said another small retail business owner.

Currently, the rise in rental costs, increasing product investment prices, higher taxation, and rising labor costs—combined with declining sales—are making it increasingly difficult for independent retailers to continue operating.