Myanmar has blocked its busiest trade crossing with Thailand for a second day, saying it wants to cut off black market funds for armed resistance groups before December’s elections.

Trade route closed

On Monday, the junta sealed the Myawaddy bridge, which carries more than $120 million worth of goods each month, according to Thai customs. Since then, trading vehicles have not been allowed to pass.

Moreover, the military said the closure would stop illegal money flowing to militias operating along highways that connect the border to Yangon.

Naing Maung Zaw, a spokesperson for the Border Guard Forces, confirmed the shutdown. However, critics argue the move is less about security and more about tightening military control before the polls.

Armed groups depend on trade

Since the 2021 coup, the junta has fought pro-democracy forces and ethnic armed groups on several fronts. These groups often rely on roadblocks and tolls on busy trade routes, including Myawaddy, to finance their campaigns.

In fact, a Thai security officer at the frontier said, “The regime has set regulations to make it uncomfortable for minority groups, to try to stop them from earning money or benefits.”

Furthermore, junta leader Min Aung Hlaing recently accused fighters of “using profits collected from illegal trade to strengthen their forces.” He promised tougher action.

Election under dispute

The military plans to hold a phased election starting on 28 December, with voting spread over weeks. Recently, its troops recaptured some territory to set up polling stations. Yet, large areas of Myanmar remain under rebel control, raising doubts about the vote’s credibility.

Meanwhile, democratic leader Aung San Suu Kyi remains jailed, and her National League for Democracy party has been dissolved. Former lawmakers are urging people to boycott.

Additionally, the junta has imposed strict new penalties. Anyone who protests or criticises the election could face up to 10 years in prison.