Myitkyina Set to Shine: Myanmar’s “City of Charm” Heads to China-ASEAN Expo

22nd China-ASEAN Expo

A Northern Gem Takes the Spotlight

Myanmar is preparing to present Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin State, as its official City of Charm at the upcoming 22nd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), to be held from 17 to 21 September 2025 in Nanning, China. Nestled in the far north of the country, Myitkyina is a culturally rich, geographically stunning city on the banks of the Ayeyarwady River — and now, it is ready to take centre stage on one of Asia’s most prominent trade and cultural platforms.

Coordinated Effort to Promote Kachin's Capital

To ensure a strong and vibrant showcase, the Myanmar Trade Promotion Organization (MyanTrade) held a key coordination meeting on 24 July 2025 in Nay Pyi Taw. The meeting brought together senior officials, including Dr Htein Lin, Director-General of MyanTrade, and U Myo Swe, Minister for Economic Affairs of the Kachin State Government.

The session focused on finalising plans to present Myitkyina’s culture, heritage, and economic potential to the regional and international audience attending the expo.

Why Myitkyina? A City of Charm and Opportunity

Myitkyina’s selection as Myanmar’s City of Charm is no accident. It offers a blend of traditional Kachin culture, natural beauty, and untapped potential for trade, tourism, and sustainable development. The city’s location near the borders of China and India makes it a strategic point for future regional connectivity, especially within the broader framework of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Visitors to the Myanmar pavilion at CAEXPO can expect to explore Myitkyina’s unique ethnic heritage, local handicrafts, investment opportunities, and tourism offerings. The city is also well known for its jade trade, traditional textiles, and its role as a gateway to the Himalayan foothills.

Spotlight at CAEXPO 2025

The China-ASEAN Expo is more than a trade fair — it’s a platform for people-to-people exchange and cultural diplomacy. Each year, ASEAN member countries feature one of their cities as a City of Charm to promote tourism, local industries, and regional partnerships.

22nd China-ASEAN Expo

This year, with Myanmar placing Myitkyina in the spotlight, the country aims to introduce a lesser-known but richly rewarding destination to investors, business leaders, and travellers alike.

CAEXPO 2025 will serve as a valuable opportunity to strengthen Myanmar-China economic ties and build awareness of Kachin State’s potential in tourism, trade, agriculture, and culture.

Building Bridges Through Culture and Commerce

The initiative to feature Myitkyina aligns with broader efforts to position Myanmar’s diverse regions on the global stage. By promoting cities beyond Yangon and Mandalay, the Ministry of Commerce hopes to create new channels for sustainable development and inclusive growth.

As preparations continue, MyanTrade, in collaboration with Kachin State authorities, is working to ensure that Myitkyina’s presentation at the expo reflects both its authenticity and ambition. From local cuisine and traditional dance to investment materials and product showcases, the city is poised to make a lasting impression.

For more information about Myanmar’s participation in CAEXPO 2025, contact:
Myanmar Trade Promotion Organization (MyanTrade): https://myantrade.gov.mm/

For more information about Mekong tourism and regional updates, visit:
Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office
Website: www.mekongtourism.org
Email: info@mekongtourism-mtco.org

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