Good News: Myanmar Begins Issuing Trademark Registration Certificates

We are pleased to share some exciting news from Myanmar. Last November, the Myanmar Intellectual Property Department (“MIPD”) began issuing trademark registration certificates for applications filed pursuant to the country's 2019 Trademark Law. This marks an important milestone in the development of Myanmar’s intellectual property system, which has been evolving since the introduction of the new trademark law.

Electronic Certificates Issued

At this stage, applicants receive electronic versions of these certificates. The MIPD has confirmed that these electronic certificates are both original and authentic, meaning that physical certificates will not be issued. This modernized approach to trademark registration eliminates the need for paper certificates. The digital format provides trademark owners with simplified access to their certificates, an important step toward making trademark management more efficient and accessible.

This transition to digital certificates also aligns with global sustainability initiatives. Eliminating paper certificates is an eco-friendly approach that significantly reduces paper consumption and the environmental impact of physical document production and delivery.

What the Certificate Includes

An electronic trademark registration certificate includes a variety of important details about the registered mark, including:

• Registration Number;
• Registration Date;
• Specimen of the Registered Mark;
• Name and Address of the Applicant;
• Filing Date;
• Classification;
• Certification Statement, certifying that the mark is registered under Myanmar’s 2019 Trademark Law; and
• Registrar’s name and signature.

In addition, the certificate includes a QR Code, which allows trademark owners to access additional information online. Scanning the QR code directs the user to the MIPD’s website, where it is possible to view additional information about the relevant trademark, such as:

• Application Type;
• Status;
• Mark Translation;
• Disclaimer;
• Mark Color;
• Filing Number;
• Filing Date;
• Gazette Number;
• Expiration Date;
• Specifications of Registered Goods;
• Representative Name;
• Vienna Classes; and
• Priority Details (if any).

This is an advanced feature, compared with many other countries' systems, and offers greater convenience and transparency.

For more information about the MIPD’s trademark registration certificates or for guidance on protecting intellectual property in Myanmar or other countries, please feel free to reach out to SCL Nishimura & Asahi. We are happy to assist you with the trademark registration process and ensuring that your intellectual property is properly protected.

Authors

Pavinee BUNYAMISSARA

Partner
Bangkok

Pavinee is a leading expert in intellectual property (IP) law. She joined the Intellectual Property Practice Group of SCL Law Group (currently known as SCL Nishimura & Asahi) as an associate upon its formation in 2005. Prior to that, Pavinee was an in-house legal counsel at many companies where she gained extensive hands-on experience within general law practice, IP and e-commerce related matters. She also gained comprehensive knowledge of contracts and telecommunications working with government agencies while she was an in-house legal counsel. Pavinee was a guest lecturer and speaker on IP and information law at various forums. Currently, Pavinee routinely advises major clients on matters relating to trademark and patent registrations, copyright recordation, license agreements, as well as trademark, patent and copyright infringement. Versatile and keen, she also assists with overseas trademark and patent registration applications and acts as counsel providing expert guidance to clients throughout IP enforcement process and litigation proceedings. She has been consistently consulted with on cases involving electronic trade and commerce, domain name registrations and personal data and privacy protection. Representing numerous international and domestic organizations in both public and private organizations, Pavinee takes advantage of a refined understanding of IP prosecutions and commercial risk to deliver to the clients borderless and practical legal advice based upon reliable and comprehensive understanding of the laws, regulations and best practices in Thailand. With her comprehensive knowledge and extensive experience, she is well-equipped to meet the clients’ diverse needs whereby she tailors her legal service and professional advice to suit the particular needs of each client.

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