ULA imposes restrictions on farmland sale, transfer and subdivision in Arakan State

By Admin 30 Jun 2026

DMG Newsroom

30 June 2026, Kyauktaw

The United League of Arakan (ULA) has issued a new administrative order restricting the sale, subdivision and transfer of agricultural land across Arakan State, raising concerns among local farming communities, regional sources said Tuesday.

According to the directive issued by the ULA executive council on June 29, individuals are prohibited from dividing farmland, transferring ownership, or leasing agricultural land for commercial or residential use without written approval from regional land management boards.

Officials said the policy is intended to standardize land administration in line with existing land management regulations and regional development frameworks.

"The system is similar to earlier land laws, but the key issue will be whether it protects farmers or creates administrative difficulties," a Kyauktaw resident said.

The directive also bans unauthorized physical changes to farmland, including land filling, road construction, fencing, and other developments that alter land use without permission.

It further prohibits land advertisements and real estate promotions that do not comply with the new regulatory framework across media platforms.

The new restrictions have triggered concern among farmers and property buyers, who fear increased central control over land ownership and tenure rights.

"Authorities are also standardizing land transaction taxes," a local resident said. "People are worried that these policies could strengthen centralized control over land and reduce security for private landholders."

Under the new rules, violators may face administrative action, including demolition of unauthorized structures, suspension of activities, and legal proceedings in local courts.