The Myanmar Parliament recently promulgated the new Myanmar Tourism Law (“MTL”) on 17 September 2018, which replaces the old Myanmar Hotel and Tourism Law that was enacted by State Law and Order Restoration Council.
The key spirit of this new MTL is different from the old one, and specifically the area of management level that three committees (such as: National Tourism Business Development Committee, Tourism Working Committee and Regional Tourism Working Committee) have been formed for implementation of this law with the collaboration of the Ministry of Hotel and Tourism.
Pursuant to the MTL, the licenses to be issued are classified into five categories, broadly- Tour license, Hotel license, Lodging-House license, Tour guide license and other services relating to tourism license. Application for such licenses can be made with the Regional Tour Business Committee. The licenses shall be valid for 3 Years and the renewal can be made in accordance the requirements of the Regional Tour Business Committee.
The restriction under this new Law is that no one is allowed to carry the business of (a) tour guide, (b) transfer or accept of tour guide (c) tour, hotel, lodging-house, tour guide or other services relating to tourism without having the specific licenses as provided for under the MTL. The MTL also provides for action(s) to counter any non-compliance/breach of the terms and conditions of licenses that inter alia includes revocation of license, cancellation and blacklisting.
The government with its continuous endeavor to strengthen the tourism industry in Myanmar, with enactment of MTL, the development is targeted to be ensured on an accountable and sustainable manner.
Through our office in Yangon, Duane Morris & Selvam advises corporations on investment, business and regulatory processes in Myanmar. For further information, please contact Mr Krishna Ramachandra (kramachandra@duanemorrisselvam.com), Mr Priyank Srivastava (psrivastava@duanemorrisselvam.com), or Mr CN Beilo (CBLo@selvamandpartners.com) or visit www.duanemorrisselvam.com. Duane Morris & Selvam is recognized as a leading law firm for Myanmar related Corporate, M&A and Projects (including Energy) work – The Legal 500 (2017 & 2018).
