On 21 July 2023, the Ministry of Commerce ("MOC") issued three notifications that (i) classify online retail businesses as essential services under the Essential Supplies and Services Law, and (ii) require Myanmar entities (which includes both companies registered in Myanmar and local residents) that are engaged in online retail businesses to register with the Department of Trade.
The registration for all e-commerce businesses must be completed by 21 January 2024 (i.e. six months from the date of the issuance of the MOC notifications. Failure to register by the given date is punishable by imprisonment ranging from six months to three years and a fine of up to MMK 500,000.
The registration process is to be completed online with a fee payable. Successful registrants will receive a certificate of registration which is valid for two years and can be renewed.
