The Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI), the country’s most influential business organization, is facing a growing internal crisis following reports that its President, U Aye Win, is attempting to forcibly amend the federation’s constitution to extend his tenure.
According to business sources close to the organization, an emergency meeting was convened on 27 February—involving former presidents, advisors, and senior staff—after leaks regarding the term extension began to circulate. The move is seen by many as an attempt to mirror the tactics used by Myanmar’s military leadership to retain absolute control.
“They are panicked by the news leaks,” a business source told the Myanmar Pressphoto Agency (MPA). “The leadership is now pushing for an emergency constitutional amendment ahead of a general meeting scheduled for 20 March. Much like Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, U Aye Win seems determined to push this through regardless of opposition.”
Under the current rules, UMFCCI leadership elections are held every three years. However, U Aye Win is reportedly pressuring the federation to change the presidential term to five years, which would potentially secure his position until 2030. He is allegedly citing “state policy” as the justification for skipping the 2025–2028 election cycle.
Internal sources suggest that while the federation’s seven Vice-Presidents harbor ambitions for the top post, they are hesitant to challenge U Aye Win due to his close personal ties with the military junta leader. “Being the President provides direct access to Min Aung Hlaing, making it a highly lucrative and influential position,” one source explained. “People want the job, but they are afraid of the fallout of opposing him directly.”
The federation’s General Secretary, Daw Khine Khine Nွယ်, a prominent garment industry entrepreneur, has also faced criticism for her perceived role in supporting the President’s agenda.
Beyond the power struggle at the top, U Aye Win—who owns the Naga Pyan tea brand and Akaya restaurant—is facing a mounting backlash from within his own staff. Employees have reported a deteriorating work environment characterized by denied salary increases, excessive oversight of working hours, and the slashing of benefits.
The scheduled meeting on 20 March is now being viewed as a critical turning point for the UMFCCI. For many members, the move represents a shift toward authoritarianism within the business community, reflecting the broader political climate of the country where democratic processes have been systematically dismantled.
