The island is the site of a deep seawater port being constructed as part of the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone.

[3][2] Construction of the China National Petroleum Corporation's pipeline through Myanmar began in 2012, and transmission of crude oil commenced on 2 May 2017.

[1] Fishermen demonstrated against the project due to its impact on their livelihoods.

[4] The pipeline project, whose entry point is on Maday Island, was criticized for not economically benefiting locals.

[6] The project, part of the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone, is being built at a cost of US$1.3 billion.