Myanmar’s Ministry of Commerce (MOC) issued a notification on November 21 2025 introducing the Geographical Indication Rules (the GI Rules). These regulations create a detailed administrative structure for registering and managing GIs in Myanmar, which fall primarily under the jurisdiction of the 2019 Trademark Law. The MOC concurrently published a notification outlining the mandatory forms for matters concerning GIs.
The GI Rules provide detailed procedures covering the complete GI application life cycle, encompassing application submissions, opposition proceedings, cancellation requests, invalidation actions, and the designation of local representation for GI affairs.
According to the Trademark Law and the GI Rules, entities eligible to seek GI registration with Myanmar’s Intellectual Property Department (IPD) include domestic and international legal organisations that officially represent defined stakeholder communities (such as producers or manufacturers of natural resources, agricultural goods, handicrafts, or industrial items), along with authorised government agencies.
Submission process
GI applications may be filed in the Myanmar language or English through electronic submission, physical delivery, or the postal service. International applicants must provide a copy of their home country’s registration certificate alongside their GI application. The certificate needs to clearly identify the GI name associated with the protected product.
A key requirement stipulates that international applicants must designate local representation in Myanmar to handle GI matters with the IPD and any appeals with the Intellectual Property Agency. The appointment document for local representatives requires proper notarisation in the applicant’s home jurisdiction to guarantee legal recognition under the GI Rules.
Authorisation to display a GI logo
The GI Rules allow any interested party, whether domestic or international, to request IPD authorisation to use the GI logo if they satisfy these conditions:
Active involvement in producing or commercialising the GI product or merchandise within the specified geographical region for which registration is being sought;
Membership in the applicant organisation; and
Full adherence to the specifications established for the relevant organisation or entity.
Approved applicants may display the GI logo on product stickers, labels, or packaging materials connected to the GI.
Looking ahead
Official fee schedules for GI-related services remain unannounced, and the formal launch date for accepting GI applications has not yet been disclosed. Given that both domestic and international organisations can participate in the application process, all prospective applicants should carefully examine Myanmar’s GI registration criteria and compile the required documentation in preparation for the upcoming submission window.
