Key Points for Registering a Trademark in Myanmar

Protecting your brand in Myanmar starts with trademark registration under Myanmar’s Trademark Law 2019. Here are some key points regarding trademark registration in Myanmar:

1. Department of Intellectual Property (Trademark Department)

The Department of Intellectual Property handles trademark registration and administration in Myanmar.

2. Trademark System

Myanmar has adopted a “first-to-file” system under the Trademark Law 2019.

3. Trademark Classes

Myanmar has officially applied the Nice Classification method to identify goods and services in trademark applications.

4. Application Process

To register a trademark, an application must be filed with the Intellectual Property Department (IPD) of Myanmar. The IPD will conduct a formality examination and assess the application on absolute grounds. If the application is approved, the trademark will be published in the trademark journal for a 60-day opposition period. The trademark will be registered if no opposition is submitted within this time frame.

5. Opposition Period

Any third party can oppose a trademark registration by submitting the relevant documentation to the IPD within 60 days of the trademark journal’s publication.

6. Registration and Protection

The IPD will grant and issue a Certificate of Trademark Registration if the trademark application is approved and no opposition  has been submitted.

Trademark protection in Myanmar lasts for ten years and can be renewed indefinitely.

7. Enforcement

A mark owner may take enforcement actions, including border control measures, civil actions, or criminal proceedings, against an infringer.