Tangyan emerged as an important centre for Panthay people (Chinese Muslims originally from neighbouring Yunnan) in the mid-20th century, especially after the destruction of Panglong during World War II.

[5][6] SSA accused Myanmar Army of using chemical weapons and recruiting women as forced porters in Tangyan during resume clashes.

[9][10] Beginning on 6 October 2015 a large-scale offensive by the Tatmadaw comprising 20 Burma Army battalions has been launched in central Shan State.

The aim of the military is to seize Shan ceasefire territories in Kehsi, Mong Nawng, Mong Hsu and Tangyan townships, using heavy artillery and with fighter jet and helicopter gunship air support to indiscriminately shell and bomb civilian areas.

These attacks have displaced thousands of Shan, Palaung, Lisu and Lahu people causing a new humanitarian crisis.