ASEAN Diplomacy: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit Manila (July 19-23) for ASEAN ministerial meetings and Indo-Pacific talks, with Myanmar expected to feature on the agenda. Regional Security: Myanmar’s National Security Adviser U Tin Aung San returned from India after the 5th BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs’ meeting, where members discussed counterterrorism, transnational crime, maritime and cyber security, plus food and energy security. Energy & Industry: Thanlyin No 1 modular oil refinery is moving toward Phase I, targeting 500,000 tonnes of fuel annually, while the energy ministry is mapping Myanmar’s power generation mix and expanding solar via grid integration and solar home systems. Food & Prices: Yangon is pushing food security through agricultural and livestock zones, egg stakeholders are coordinating to curb price hikes, and diesel prices rose while petrol fell slightly. Agribusiness Investment: An Indian firm plans a soybean crushing and refining plant in Pathein Industrial Zone, linking black gram exports and fish-feed imports. Policy for MSMEs: Pyithu Hluttaw heard updates on a K170bn MSME Development Fund and industrial zone improvements. Coastal Sustainability: Myanmar is launching integrated coastal management with green, blue and circular economy goals, including vessel monitoring and anti-illegal fishing measures. Auto Sector: Myanmar International Auto Expo 2026 in Yangon showcased mainly Chinese brands and EVs, signaling demand for policy support in the EV market.