On 15 January 2025, the State Administration Council (“SAC”) enacted the Animal Health and Livestock Development Amendment Law, 2025, under Section 419 of the Constitution, marking a significant development in Myanmar’s regulatory framework for the livestock sector. The amendment introduces key changes that impact businesses in livestock farming, animal products, and related industries. This article outlines the critical aspects of the amended law and its implications for businesses.
Key Changes in the Amendment
Introduction of Registration Chapter
The 2025 amendment introduces a new chapter on registration for businesses involved in producing, processing, and selling livestock products. This includes activities such as:
- Livestock farming
- Pedigree animal farming
- Incubating
- Beekeeping
- Animal product handling
- Genetically modified bioproducts
- Feedstuffs
- Animal medicines
- Slaughterhouses or butchery businesses
The person or organization must apply for registration with the Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Township Department under the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Irrigation (“MOALI”), following prescribed criteria. This new system simplifies the process and ensures better regulation of these businesses.
New Business Categories: Animal Gathering and Protection Camps
The amendment adds two new business categories that must also comply with permit requirements:
- Animal Gathering Camps
- Animal Protection Camps
Export and Import Process Unchanged
The law maintains the existing export/import process for animals, animal products, and related goods. Businesses importing or exporting these items must first obtain a recommendation certificate from the Director-General of the Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department before applying for an export/import license. Despite the introduction of a registration chapter, the process remains the same.
Changes for Slaughterhouse and Butchery Businesses
One of the most notable amendments is the shift from a permit to a registration certificate for slaughterhouses and butchery businesses. Existing permit holders will be transitioned to the registration system upon the expiry of their permit. This simplifies compliance for businesses engaged in slaughtering and butchery activities, as they only need a registration certificate rather than a permit.
The law also provides a clearer definition of “slaughtering,” emphasizing its role in the commercial production and storage of animal products derived from slaughter.
Compensation and Insurance Provisions
The amendment revises terminology surrounding compensation for losses caused by infectious diseases. The new law replaces “compensation for loss or damage” with “insurance fee, compensation, or aid,” clarifying provisions related to financial support in the event of livestock extermination due to disease outbreaks.
Regulatory Compliance
Businesses that hold a permit or registration must:
- Comply with the conditions outlined in their certificate or license.
- Allow inspections by the relevant department.
- Adhere to laws, rules, and directives issued under the law.
For those who do businesses that are of the nature of this law, it is crucial to report any suspected infectious disease outbreaks to the authorities and follow the department’s directives in response.
Registration and Permit Process
The law outlines a multi-tiered process for obtaining a permit or registration:
- Township Department Head: Reviews applications and issues licenses.
- District Department Head: Evaluates more complex applications.
- Region/State/Union Territory Department Head: Reviews forwarded cases.
- Director-General: Makes final decisions on complex cases.
Impact on Investment
The law also aligns with Myanmar Investment Commission Notification 15/2017, which mandates that certain livestock and agricultural sector investments receive approval from the MOALI. This ensures that businesses fully comply with national regulations and can operate within a structured, supportive environment. Investors will benefit from clear regulatory frameworks, promoting sustainable growth and responsible development.
Ongoing Developments
Following our discussions with the relevant department, we have learned that the rules are currently in the draft stage, and the fees for the Recommendation Certificate, Permits, and Registration Certificates are under review by the MOALI. Therefore, the fees will be announced along with the rules or will be announced through separate notifications.
Conclusion
The Animal Health and Livestock Development Amendment Law, 2025 significantly advances regulating Myanmar’s livestock sector. It introduces new business categories, streamlines the registration process, and establishes clearer compliance standards.
The information provided here is for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. Legal advice should be obtained from qualified legal counsel for all specific situations.
