Scotch gains greater protection in Burma

Scotch whisky has been given special protective measures in Burma as a collective trademark in an effort to tackle counterfeit products.

The SWA has welcomed protective measures against counterfeit Scotch whisky products in Burma

Both consumers and the industry are set to benefit from the special protection measure, which means action can be taken more effectively against products being illegally marketed as Scotch whisky.

“This will allow us to protect Scotch whisky against products illegally being sold or passed off as Scotch,” said Alan Park, Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) legal advisor. “products suspected of misleading consumers and damaging the legitimate trade are already under investigation and may become the subject of legal action using the protection now given to Scotch whisky in Burma.”

According to the SWA, Scotch whisky exports in Burma experienced a 65% hike from £888,734 in 2012 to £2 million in 2013.

Andrew Patrick, British ambassador to Burma, commented: “Scotch whisky is recognised worldwide as a distinctive and high quality British product and I am delighted that the Burmese authorities have taken steps to recognise and protect this.

“A robust legal framework is of great importance to foreign investors in any market and the British Embassy is supportive of the Burmese Government’s efforts to develop this.”

Earlier this month, forensic scientists announced a new technique to tackle counterfeit Scotch whisky brands, by determining whether the water used to make the spirit actually originates from Scotland.