Overview
Located southeast of Yangon, Thilawa Port is a modern industrial and logistics hub developed alongside the Thilawa Special Economic Zone (SEZ). It provides improved facilities for container operations and supports Myanmar’s growing manufacturing and export industries.
Positioned along the Yangon River, it serves as a critical maritime gateway designed to handle larger vessel drafts compared to traditional inner-city terminals, effectively easing congestion and boosting international trade capabilities.
Development & Background
Developed as a joint initiative to accommodate Myanmar’s rapid economic expansion, Thilawa Port represents a milestone in modern port infrastructure. Its integration with the Thilawa SEZ has transformed the region into a premier manufacturing and industrial focal point.
Equipped with state-of-the-art terminal facilities, efficient container yards, and seamless logistics connectivity, the port continues to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate industrial growth nationwide.
Location & Approaches
Situated on the eastern bank of the Yangon River downstream from downtown Yangon, accessed via deep-water navigational channels maintained with regular dredging to ensure safe transit for commercial vessels.
Port layout and cargo facilities
Advanced terminal infrastructure tailored for containerized freight, industrial goods, and project cargo logistics.
Containers
Modern container terminals equipped with advanced gantry cranes and spacious yards to handle high-volume box traffic efficiently.
Industrial Cargo
Specialized handling zones dedicated to supporting raw materials and industrial components destined for the adjacent SEZ.
Manufactured Goods
Secure storage facilities and staging areas optimized for finished consumer products and export-ready manufactured goods.
Project Cargo
Heavy-lift capable quays and expansive open yards designed for oversized industrial machinery and infrastructure components.
General Cargo
Flexible break-bulk berths accommodating diverse non-containerized shipments and regional commercial commodities.
Logistics Hub
Integrated warehousing and distribution centers streamlining supply chain operations directly connecting port and SEZ facilities.
Pilotage, restrictions, and hazards
Essential operational procedures and navigational guidelines for vessels arriving at Thilawa Port.
Pilotage & Tug Services
Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels navigating the Yangon River channel. Expert harbor tugs assist with docking maneuvers at Thilawa berths.
Port Restrictions
Draft and length limitations apply due to river channel parameters; vessel movements are frequently scheduled around tidal windows.
River Currents
Strong tidal currents and siltation along the Yangon River require strict adherence to local harbor master instructions and navigational rules.
Navigation Hazards
Vessels must maintain high vigilance for local river traffic, seasonal visibility changes, and shifting sandbanks in the approach channels.
Emergency Contacts & Nearby Services
Port operations are coordinated through the Myanmar Port Authority (MPA) and local terminal management. Bunkering, fresh water supply, and minor technical repairs are accessible via authorized maritime agents in Yangon.
Fun Fact
- Thilawa Port is one of Myanmar’s most modern port developments and plays a key role in attracting foreign investment and supporting industrial growth.
- Directly linked with the Thilawa Special Economic Zone, forming an integrated economic powerhouse.
- Offers deeper draft tolerances than older inner-city Yangon terminals, accommodating larger modern container ships.
- Serves as a prime catalyst for Myanmar’s export-oriented manufacturing sector.