Asia Pacific

Myanmar

Patent system, trademark registration, annuity management, and renewals in Myanmar.

Authority

IPD

PCT

N/A

Madrid

Non-member

Myanmar IP Portal

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Before You Start

Before filing or quoting, you'll typically confirm these first

1
Whether to pursue the Paris route, PCT national phase, or start with trademark registration in Myanmar
2
Which of patent filing, trademark registration, annuity, or renewal is the most urgent priority
3
Whether to verify the official portal, search system, and key deadlines before moving to a quote or engagement

The sections below cover each module — use the navigation to jump directly to what you need.

Patent System & Process

Patent System in Myanmar

Myanmar's IP system underwent major reform in 2019–2020; the Patent Act (2019) and Trademark Law (2019) were enacted, ending the era with no formal patent law. Myanmar has **NOT joined PCT** or the **Madrid Protocol** — applications must be filed directly with IPD Myanmar. 20-year invention patents; 5-year utility models; 10-year trademarks. The political situation (2021 military coup) creates significant uncertainty for foreign investment and IP enforcement.

2019 IP Law Reform ▾

Myanmar's 2019 Patent Act (effective 2020) is the country's first formal patent law, ending reliance on the Registration Act (1909). A formal examination system is being developed under the new law.

Source: IPD Myanmar; WIPO — MM

Myanmar Not PCT or Madrid Member ▾

Myanmar has not joined PCT or the Madrid Protocol. All IP applications must be filed directly with IPD Myanmar as national applications; international systems cannot be used.

Source: WIPO — MM

Political Risk Note ▾

Following the 2021 military coup, Myanmar's business environment changed significantly; foreign investment restrictions, sanctions risks, and IP enforcement uncertainty have increased. Assess overall market risk before filing.

Source: OFAC; US Treasury — Myanmar; EU Myanmar sanctions

Trademark System & Process

Trademark System in Myanmar

Myanmar's 2019 Trademark Law established a formal registration system; 10-year term; renewable. Must file directly with IPD. **Madrid Protocol NOT available.** Political situation may affect processing and enforcement.

Trademark Application ▾

Must file directly with IPD Myanmar in Burmese or English; 10-year term. Madrid NOT available. Early filing recommended to prevent squatting.

Source: IPD Myanmar

Patent Annuity

Myanmar Patent Annuities

Patent annuities required under the new Patent Act; see IPD Myanmar fee schedule for rates. Local agent recommended.

Source: IPD Myanmar fee schedule

Annuity Reference → Managed Annuities

Trademark Renewal

Myanmar Trademark Renewals

10-year trademark; renew before expiry; grace period available.

Source: IPD Myanmar

Renewal Reference → Managed Renewals

FAQ

Common Questions — Myanmar IP

Is Myanmar a PCT member? ▾

No, Myanmar has not joined PCT. Direct national filing with IPD Myanmar is required.

Is Myanmar a Madrid Protocol member? ▾

No, Myanmar is not a Madrid member. Trademark applications must be filed directly with IPD Myanmar.

How does Myanmar's political situation affect IP protection? ▾

The 2021 coup increased business uncertainty; some sanctions may restrict foreign applicant activity; enforcement capacity is affected. Assess overall risk before filing.

When did Myanmar's patent law enter into force? ▾

Myanmar's Patent Act (2019) entered into force in 2020.

Does Myanmar have utility model protection? ▾

Yes, the new Patent Act includes utility models (5-year term); no substantive examination.

What language is required for Myanmar trademark applications? ▾

Burmese or English; English is commonly used in practice.

Is there a trademark use requirement in Myanmar? ▾

The new Trademark Law includes use requirements; non-use for 3 years may lead to revocation. Confirm current requirements with a local agent.

Is a local agent required in Myanmar? ▾

Strongly recommended — especially given the current political uncertainty; a local agent can navigate procedural uncertainties.

Official Reference Sources

Sources for This Page

IPD Myanmar Official Website www.myanmarip.gov.mm WIPO — Myanmar www.wipo.int/members/en/details.jsp?country_id=122

Content based on official sources above, last reviewed: 2026-04. In case of discrepancy with the latest official publications, official sources prevail.

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