Possibly a slightly controversial one in MoneyWeek Asia this time: Investing in Burma.

Well, I’m not actually talking about investing yet but it’s worth keeping a eye on this. There are some tentative signs that recent political developments aren’t a complete sham and that reform could happen.

Obviously, we need to hope conditions change for the sake of the long-suffering population. If they, this is potentially a very significant country and economy in Southeast Asia.

Burma has a population of 60 million, relatively young and reasonably well-educated for its level of development, together with substantial natural resources and helpful geography. While it’s starting from a very low point, it has Vietnam-like development potential given more competent and pragmatic leadership.