"Myanmar Junta Pushes Ruby and Sapphire Sales to China Amid Sanctions", The Irrawaddy, 18 September 2025

[...] following the military coup in February 2021, the United States and United Kingdom imposed sanctions targeting the junta’s revenue streams—including the gem trade.

[...] The regime is now seeking to formalize ruby and sapphire exports to China [...].

[...] locals allege that large-scale mining rights have been granted to individuals connected to TNLA leaders and foreign business interests, particularly from China and Myanmar’s Wa State, and that those mining operations are causing serious environmental damage.

[...] starting in the 1990s, Myanmar’s military consolidated control over the country’s ruby mines through military-owned companies Myanmar Economic Corporation (MEC) and Myanmar Economic Holdings Limited (MEHL). [...].