Myanmar to legislate on computer software

YANGON — Computer professionals and government officials will form a committee to legislate on the import and export of computer software, according to Myanmar Computer Professionals Association (MCPA).

"There is still no legal structure for software import/export in our country. Taxes on them are also yet to be decided. This is a requirement for the long run and we have just started," said Myo Myint Tun, Secretary of MCPA.

"These days there are many international software companies that want to out source to Myanmar. They will let computer software to be written in Myanmar and exported back to their countries. Until now there is no legal framework for them," he added.

Software export and import will be legislated under the Export-Import Law. The work committee will be formed from representatives of Myanmar computer associations, the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and Ministry of Finance.

"As there is no formal route of software export currently, its earnings are not included in calculation of GDP. According to our estimates, software export will yield about US$ 120 million next year. For these expectations, it is important for us to be accurate and exact in our activities. Software should become a category of GDP income," Myo Myint Tun added.

source: Eleven Myanmar

http://www.elevenmyanmar.com/business/4415-myanmar-to-legislate-on-computer-software