The Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) has begun collecting advance taxes for 2026 from businesses in Namkham town, northern Shan State, according to local sources.

Residents told SHAN that since the second week of September, TNLA’s tax department has collected between 500,000 kyat and 5 million kyat (approximately USD 114 to 1,136) from local businesses, including general stores, tea shops, noodle shops, clothing stores, and electronics retailers.

“They said it’s advance tax collection for 2026. They are demanding over 2 million kyat from general stores and children’s clothing shops. Even if we already have a license, they say it is not valid. On top of that, we have to transfer 200,000 kyat for their ‘tea money’ (a bribe or an unofficial, under-the-table payment) via KBZ Pay,” a local vendor told SHAN.

The vendor added that the high rates are forcing some businesses to consider shutting down.

TNLA’s tax schedule reportedly includes a municipal tax of 200,000 kyat and a profit tax of 1 million kyat. Residents allege that officials are also demanding an additional 200,000 kyat as “tea money,” which they claim is outside the official rates.

SHAN contacted TNLA spokesperson Lway Yay Oo for comment on the advance tax collection and allegations of extra payments but has not yet received a response.

Local sources reported that TNLA officials have warned villagers against reporting the collections to news agencies or the Shan Army.

“They keep records, and anyone who contacts news agencies or the Shan Army may face fines or other monetary penalties. They also don’t allow gatherings in town. Trade is already suffering because we can’t bring goods from Muse, and the Military Council side arrests people too,” another Namkham vendor said.

Meanwhile, there are reports that the Military Junta may attempt to retake Namkham and Kutkai towns before the December elections. Military troops have reportedly been reinforcing positions in Muse, with two or three helicopters delivering supplies every other day.

“Some KTVs owned by TNLA officials have been closed, and Chinese-linked businesses in the town center have also shut down recently. People are worried this could mean fighting is coming,” a local man told SHAN.

In a separate incident in late July, TNLA subordinate staff were accused of inflating electricity bills in Namkham by writing higher amounts than were actually consumed, worsening residents’ financial hardships.

Myanmar Now reported on August 28 that TNLA and the Military Junta held talks in Kunming, China, on August 26–27. TNLA reportedly agreed to withdraw from Kyaukme and Hsipaw towns, but the talks ended without agreement after TNLA demanded that the Junta hand over control of all towns except Namhsan and Mantong. Military sources say another round of talks is expected later this month.