20 March

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How to Prove a Generic or Descriptive Sign Is Eligible for Registration in Myanmar?

Download A mark lacking inherent distinctivness or being descriptive of the goods of services can still achieve registration in Myanmar under Section 13 of Myanmar’s New Trademark Law if it satisfies either of the following requirements: (i) If the mark’s distinctiveness is known among consumers due to its use before the date of application for mark registration, or (ii) If the applicant, in good faith, is exclusively using the mark continuously within the commercial area of Myanmar. Despite these provisions, it remains unclear how the law determines a mark to be sufficiently "known" among consumers for eligibility, or the extent of...

20 March

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How to Overcome Trademark Refusal for Genericness or Descriptiveness in Myanmar?

Posted by Vu Thu Uyen

in Myanmar, Trademark

Download Facing the hurdle of trademark refusal in Myanmar due to genericness or descriptiveness often poses significant obstacles for trademark applicants. However, the picture was not always so gloomy. Myanmar's New Trademark Law, particularly under Section 13, provides a pathway for such marks to change their fates, being accepted for registration if meeting certain. Specifically, a mark may qualify for registration if it is (i) recognized for its distinctiveness among consumers prior to the application or (ii) exclusively and continuously used in good faith by the applicant within Myanmar's commercial domain. Yet, Myanmar's New Trademark Law does not clearly provide for how...

31 October

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From Geography to Goodwill: The Battle over Trademark Distinctiveness in Myanmar

Posted by Vu Thu Uyen

in Myanmar, Notable Articles, Trademark

Download For the past two decades, B. Lall (the Plaintiff) had been operating under the distinguished trademark "RANGOON OPTICAL WORKS," selling spectacles in the vibrant cities of Prome and Paungde. The Plaintiff detected that Mr. Ko Maung Ngwe sold spectacles under the same mark. As such, the Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against Mr. Ko Maung Ngwe (the Defendant) for their use of the same trademark, "RANGOON OPTICAL WORKS," in relation to spectacles. The core issue at hand was whether the term "RANGOON," with its geographical reference, could be deemed distinctive and protectable as a trademark in Myanmar. Case brief The Plaintiff's initial pursuit...

30 October

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Enforcing Trademark Rights in Myanmar – Essential Considerations

Posted by Vu Thu Uyen

in Myanmar, Notable Articles, Trademark

Download In the competitive landscape of business, trademarks are the lifeblood of a company's identity and reputation. They are symbols of trust, quality, and recognition in the market. The more well-known a mark is, the more vulnerable to infringement it is. However, as a trademark infringement case in Myanmar reveals, the more renowned a mark becomes, the more susceptible it becomes to infringement. This case sheds light on the intricate challenges involved in protecting a well-known mark within the vibrant market of Myanmar. Facts E. Mohamed Ebrahim & Anr, the Appellants-Plaintiffs, operated as importers and wholesalers, offering a diverse range of goods, including...

18 October

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What is the Process of Customs Recordal for Trademarks in Myanmar?

Posted by Vu Thu Uyen

in Myanmar, Notable Articles, Trademark

Download The Ministry of Planning and Finance of Myanmar issued Notification No. 50/2023, outlining the rules, requirements, and procedures for registered trademark owners to safeguard their intellectual property rights through customs recordation. This notification provides a framework for trademark owners to avail customs protection against counterfeiting and protect their brands in cross-border trade. Customs recordal or customs watch (customs supervision) is of paramount importance as an IPR enforcement strategy for IPR holders in Myanmar. The customs authority in Maynmar serves as a gatekeeper, playing a crucial role in preventing the entry of trademarked counterfeits into the country. By prioritizing customs recordal or...

18 October

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Trade Name Protection in Myanmar: What You Need To Know

Posted by Vu Thu Uyen

in Myanmar, Trademark

Download Trade names play a vital role in distinguishing one business from another, contributing to brand recognition and reputation. In Myanmar, trade names are considered intellectual property subject matter and are granted protection under the Trademark Law. At KENFOX, we recognize the significance of trade names and their role in shaping a business's success. As a prominent intellectual property law firm in Myanmar, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive IP services to safeguard and enhance our clients' intellectual property assets, including trade names. In this article, we delve into the concept of trade names in Myanmar, explore the extent of their...

18 October

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Registering and Protecting Geographical Indications in Myanmar: 10 noteworthy points

Posted by Vu Thu Uyen

in Myanmar, Trademark

Download Geographical Indication (GI) holds significant importance in safeguarding the unique identity and quality of goods originating from specific regions or territories. A Geographical Indication is defined under Section 2 of Myanmar’s Trademark Law as an indication which identifies any goods as originating from a particular country, territory or a region, where a given quality, reputation or other distinguishing characteristics of the goods is indicative of its geographical origin. The primary objective of GI protection in Myanmar is to preserve the distinctiveness and reputation of goods linked to specific geographic areas, ensuring consumers can trust the authenticity and unique attributes of...

22 September

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What Are the Penalties for Counterfeiting Offenses in Myanmar?

Posted by Vu Thu Uyen

in Myanmar, Trademark

Download Preserving intellectual property rights plays a pivotal role in stimulating innovation, nurturing creativity, and promoting equitable competition within any economy. Recognizing this significance, Myanmar has implemented rigorous legislation to tackle counterfeiting effectively and protect the rights of intellectual property owners. Within the legal framework of Myanmar, Sections 87 to 92 delineate the consequences for offenses associated with counterfeiting and unauthorized use of protected marks. This article explores the essential provisions of these sections, underscoring the government's unwavering dedication to safeguarding intellectual property rights. Offenses for commercial purposes Section 87 of Myanmar's Trademark Law prescribes various offenses committed with a commercial intent and...

11 September

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What Factors Should You Keep In Mind When Filing A Trademark Opposition In Myanmar?

Posted by Vu Thu Uyen

in Myanmar, Trademark

Download In Myanmar's dynamic and evolving business landscape, trademarks play a pivotal role in differentiating brands and establishing consumer trust. The country's recent enactment of the Trademark Law provides a robust framework for intellectual property protection, empowering businesses and individuals to safeguard their brand identities. A key aspect of this process is the ability to file an objection or opposition to a trademark application, ensuring that only eligible and deserving marks are granted registration. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the procedures, important considerations, and legal aspects of filing an objection to a trademark application in Myanmar. At KENFOX, we understand the...

07 September

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How Are Border Control Measures Enforced to Safeguard Trademark Rights in Myanmar?

Posted by Vu Thu Uyen

in Myanmar, Trademark

Download Intellectual property rights are essential for fostering innovation, creativity, and economic growth. In an effort to safeguard these rights, Myanmar has implemented a customs recordal procedure, as stipulated in the new Trademark Law under Sections 68-76. In addition, Myanmar’s Ministry of Planning and Finance issued Notification No. 50/2023, which sets out the rules, requirements, and procedures for registered trademark owners to protect their intellectual property rights through customs recordation. This procedure empowers right holders to take swift action against counterfeit goods entering the country's trade routes. By providing a clear framework for examination and decision-making, the law aims to protect...