"This Rapid Market Assessment (RMA) is a suppliment to the MAU Market Price Report in South Sagaing Region. It provides township-level data on market functionality, activity, supply, and logistics. Data were collected through observation and KIIs with retailers during May 21-30, 2024. Reports available at www.themimu.info/market-analysis-unit. KEY FINDINGS Market security was largely unchanged in May, and it remained poor in Shwebo and Monywa Towns; Market activity was generally stable, although retailers suggested customers were spending less; Supply of many NFIs improved, including fuel and medicine, although supply of hygiene NFIs worsened; Supply in Yinmarbin was most improved in May, but supply was still worse here than elsewhere; Shipping rates rose 10-20% in most areas, and all five markets monitored reported higher rates; Retail challenges increased most in Monywa, and concerns of weakening demand grew regionwide. Regional Overview Market Functionality - Security remained poor in/ around some markets, but operations were stable. Security improved slightly at the Yinmarbin village market, but security conditions were otherwise unchanged in May. All markets monitored remained open, and operating hours were generally stable. Market Activity - Relatively good security at village markets contributed to stable market activity. Market activity shifted slightly at markets in Shwebo and Monywa Towns, but overall there was little change in customer and retailer volumes in May. The Myaung market—where security remained poor—continued to serve only nearby villages within the township. Availability of Goods - NFI supply improved in May, particularly in Yinmarbin where supply was worst. Markets in Yinmarbin, Ye-U, and Shwebo saw supply improvements, primarily related to NFIs. Supply of NFIs— including fuel and medicines—generally improved in May, although supply of hygiene items worsened slightly. Supply of food items was generally stable. Transport & Logistics - Retailers in all five markets monitored reported rising shipping costs in May. Lead times remained stable in May, but retailers in four-of five markets monitored said shipping costs rose 10% or more. Formal shipping in/around Shwebo resumed in May, and all markets monitored allowed cross-township movement of goods. Sources of supply were generally unchanged in May, with suppliers in Monywa, Mandalay, and Yangon remaining the primary sources of goods. Retailer Challenges - Monywa retailers reported more challenges in May, and concerns about weak demand grew. Retail challenges grew considerably in Monywa in May, but retailers elsewhere reported overall fewer retail difficulties than last month. Challenges related to transportation and cash lessened somewhat in May, although a growing number of retailers said weak demand was a problem for them. Shwebo Town retailers continued to report the most severe business-related challenges, particularly related to security and transportation..."