Siam Makro eyes Myanmar, Vietnam, Indonesia

Thai retailer Siam Makro says it is keen to enter Myanmar, one of three key Southeast Asian markets it considers a priority.

Siam Makro, which operates the Makro-branded cash-and-carry stores, has confirmed to the Bangkok Post newspaper that it has completed a feasibility study on the fast-deregulating Myanmar market.

CEO Suchada Ithijarukul said the company had met with the Thai ambassador in Yangon to explore procedures for entering the country.

“We have conducted a feasibility study on Makro’s market opportunities in many Asean countries, with Myanmar, Vietnam and Indonesia being the priority destinations,” she said.

“Siam Makro is studying Myanmar consumer behaviour and foreign investment laws. If the regulations are clear, it is ready to open its first store immediately.”

Siam Makro is part of the powerful Thai conglomerate Charoen Pokphan Group.