Since September 2024, Chinese-licensed trucks have been steadily transporting coal from the Namma coal mine in Hsipaw Township, Shan State, to China through the Chinshwehaw border gate, according to local sources. This surge in coal shipments follows the Kokang Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) gaining control of Lashio, a key transit point in the region.

The Namma coal mine, operated by the Ngwe Yi Pearl Company in collaboration with the Hay Hein Company and Min Shwe Lwar Company, both linked to the Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC) under the military, has significantly ramped up its operations. Local drivers and residents have reported a noticeable increase in coal truck traffic, particularly along the Lashio-Taunggyi route.

One driver described the scene as relentless: “It’s like a never-ending convoy of sand trucks. They come from Namma, pass through Nampawng village, and speed toward Lashio. In just 30 minutes, I counted about 20 coal trucks racing past me,” he told SHAN.

The coal trucks travel from Hsipaw through Lashio and Hsenwi, then follow the Hsenwi-Kunlong-Chinshwehaw route to China. Notably, these trucks appear to enjoy preferential treatment at checkpoints. A resident from Hsenwi observed, “Since the Kokang Army took control of Lashio, the coal trucks move freely without stopping at checkpoints, unlike passenger vehicles. Their Chinese license plates are clearly visible, and you can see around 10 trucks passing by in a short span of time.”

China reopened the Chinshwehaw border gate in November 2024, permitting the import of industrial raw materials such as coal, sugarcane, and corn. However, border traders have noted a one-sided trade flow: while China allows imports of these materials, it restricts exports through the same crossing.

In a parallel development, coal from the Ngwe Yi Pearl Company is also reportedly being transported to China via border gates controlled by the United Wa State Army (UWSA) in Tangyan Township. This suggests a broader pattern of resource extraction and export facilitated by armed groups in the region.