"The gross domestic product (GDP) of Burma for 19772 was estimated at just over $4.0 billion at current prices. Revised GDP figures for 1975-76 were $3,510 million for 1975 and $3,996 million for 1976. The GDP at constant 1969 prices was $1,839 million in 1976 and estimated at $1,842 million in 1977. One encouraging sign was the taming of the chronically high inflation rate. The revised Rangoon consumer price index (1972=100) increased about 14% during the year to 256, a smaller increase than in previous years. The balance-of-payments deficit was again held to a very manageable level—$29 million (revised) in 1976 and $22 million in 1977. Exports totaled an estimated $240 million, and imports increased to an estimated $312 million during 1977. The latest figures show that the population increased 2.2% in 1977 to 31.5 million. The total active labor force was 12.4 million, with 66,000, or 0.53%, engaged in mining activities. These miners produced about 1.7% of the net 1977 output of goods and services. The value of the output of the mineral sector for 1976 was $69 million at current prices, a 31% increase over the 1975 figure. Value figures for 1977 were not available but will probably be between the 1975 and 1976 levels at constant prices and could show a modest increase at current prices. The overall physical output of mineral products during 1977 was only slightly greater than in 1976, but the long-term trend is one of gradual decline, primarily owing to lack of new investment and failure to bring any significant new mines into production. Although its current output is small, Burma was a mineral producer of some consequence before World War II and still is considered to have a good potential for expansion. At present, however, no foreign investment is allowed in mining. All important mining operations are conducted by the Government-owned mining corporations. Foreign participation has been limited to technical assistance and financial aid. Small-scale, family-operated mines are still privately owned, with most of the output being sold to the Government. The major aim of the Government?s mining policy at present is to modernize or reopen existing mines that were in production before World War II but are now operating at reduced production levels or have closed because of deteriorated equipment and/or a lack of investment capital. Despite Burma?s favorable mineral potential, many of the most promising areas for exploration have not been mapped or prospected in any detail because of security problems..."