News & Insight

Utility Models in Myanmar: A Practical Tool for Protecting Innovation

11 September 2025

The concept of utility models—sometimes referred to as “petty patents”—offers businesses a cost-effective and accessible way to secure protection for technical improvements that may not qualify for a full patent.

In Myanmar, utility models were introduced under the Patent Law of 2019 as a complement to the patent system. They are designed to encourage innovation by providing protection for incremental improvements and practical adaptations of existing technologies, particularly those with clear commercial or social value.

What Can Be Protected?

To qualify, a utility model must be:

• New; and
• Capable of industrial application.

Unlike patents, there is no inventive step requirement, making utility models suitable for innovations that are practical rather than groundbreaking. Typical examples include:

• An agricultural tool redesigned for efficiency.
• A packaging solution that extends shelf life.
• A medical device component adapted for local conditions.

That said, utility models cannot protect methods, processes, or chemical substances—they are intended for products or devices with a defined physical structure.

Filing a Utility Model in Myanmar

Applications are filed with the Myanmar Intellectual Property Department (MIPD). The process requires:

• The prescribed application form.
• A description and claims defining the scope of protection.
• Drawings (if applicable).
• Payment of official fees.
• Supporting documents, such as foreign priority claims, if relevant.

Unlike patent applications, utility models are not subject to full substantive examination. Instead, they undergo a formality review, making the process faster and more cost-effective—an advantage in competitive markets where speed matters.

Duration and Rights Granted

• Protection lasts for 10 years from the filing date (shorter than the 20-year patent term).
• The term is non-renewable beyond this period.

Once registered, the holder has the exclusive right to prevent others from making, using, selling, or importing the protected product without consent. Remedies include injunctions and damages through civil courts, with criminal penalties possible in cases of willful infringement.

Strategic Considerations

Utility models can serve as:

• A quick, cost-effective layer of protection while pursuing longer-term patent strategies.
• A defensive right to deter competitors and safeguard local adaptations.
• A commercial tool in negotiations with partners or investors.

Businesses should weigh utility models against patents by considering the commercial lifespan of the product and the competitive environment in Myanmar. Whether the innovation is a practical improvement or a complex invention.

Regional and Practical Context

Myanmar’s utility model system is new, and implementation is still evolving. Examination guidelines and enforcement practices remain in development, and businesses should be prepared for procedural uncertainty.

Regionally, Myanmar’s regime aligns with trends in ASEAN, where countries such as Thailand and Vietnam also provide utility model protection to support local innovators. However, unlike some jurisdictions, Myanmar currently offers a fixed 10-year term without extension. Key Takeaways for Businesses

• Faster and cheaper than patents, but limited to physical products/devices.
• Protection lasts 10 years and cannot be renewed.
• No inventive step required—practical improvements are eligible.
• Useful as part of a layered IP strategy.
• Implementation challenges remain; legal guidance is critical.

How We Can Help

Our Intellectual Property team advises both local innovators and international businesses on navigating Myanmar’s emerging IP framework. We assist clients in:

• Assessing whether to pursue a utility model, a patent, or both.
• Preparing and filing applications with the MIPD.
• Developing enforcement strategies tailored to commercial objectives.

For businesses adapting products to the Myanmar market or developing practical innovations, utility models can provide a timely and valuable safeguard—when pursued strategically.

*This publication is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For tailored guidance, please contact our office at info@legalhousemm.com.

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