The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) now controls most of the key Myanmar–China trade routes, border gates, and economic hubs.

The Karen National Army (KNA) controls crucial locations for Myanmar-Thailand border trade in Karen State. However, alternative trade routes such as the Htawtkawkoe route, Kyat Ou Taung route and Road 1018 are shared and controlled by the KNA along with other Karen armed groups.

Nine refugee camps are situated along the Myanmar-Thailand border, six of which fall within the stretch bordering Karen State.

Since the 2021 coup, the Karen National Union/Karen National Liberation Army (KNU/KNLA) has focused primarily on expanding control along the Myanmar-Thailand border rather than pushing deeper into the mainland.

Following the crackdown on KK Park, Kyar Phyant (online scam) syndicates have splintered into smaller networks.

In 2024 and 2025, the State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) and the Karen National Union/Karen National Liberation Army (KNU/KNLA)fought for control of major trade routes in Karen State.

In September 2025, the State Security and Peace Commission (SSPC) recaptured Asian Highway No. 1 from the Karen National Union/Karen National Liberation Army (KNU/KNLA).