Abstract

• Foreign Direct Investments in the agricultural sector are vital in the improvement of productivity and the raising of incomes and food security as well as in ensuring a long-term growth of the agro business. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is central to achieving Sustainable Development Goals especially in reduction of poverty. The development in Myanmar's agricultural sector can be promoted by attracting FDI. FDI may support financial and technological needs in the Myanmar agricultural sector. However, due to the numerous land issues and weak administration in addressing the land issues, foreign investors are concerned about investing in Myanmar even though there have been numerous concessions in inviting the foreign investments. Thus, this paper discusses the role of FDI in the development of Myanmar's agriculture which is the best solution for reduction of poverty in rural areas. This paper also critically analyzes the underlying legal issues related to the conflict of land rights under the Vacant, Fallow and Virgin Lands Management Law, 2012 (VFVML Law) and the Myanmar Investment Law, 2016. It is found out that there is an unclear definition in classifying the various lands under VFVML Law and inconsistent provisions under VFVML Law and Myanmar Investment Law. Therefore, it is necessary to amend the existing land laws to reconcile the land types and classifications in order to Foster, Secure and Well-defined Land Rights.