Parliament considers bill to establish intellectual property office

A bill proposing the creation of an Intellectual Property (IP) Office in the Maldives was introduced in Parliament on Tuesday. The proposed legislation aims to establish a government body responsible for protecting intellectual property rights, including the works of artists and manufacturers.

The bill, submitted on behalf of the government by Kudahuvadhoo MP Hussain Hameed, outlines the establishment of an IP Office under the Ministry of Economic Development. The office would be tasked with registering intellectual property, maintaining an IP register, and liaising with regional and international IP bodies.

According to the bill, intellectual property includes trademarks, copyrights, patents, industrial designs, and geographical indications. Once enacted, the legislation would empower the new office to collect fees and provide services in accordance with the proposed law.

The bill also stipulates the appointment of a Registrar of Intellectual Property to lead the office for a five-year term. The appointment, dismissal, and salary of the Registrar would be determined based on the advice of the Minister of Economic Development, who would also be accountable to Parliament regarding the office’s operations.

During the parliamentary session, MP Hussain Hameed said the legislation aims to provide a structured system for the protection of local intellectual creations, many of which remain unregistered or unprotected. He noted the bill is intended to give entrepreneurs and innovators the confidence to launch products without fear of intellectual property violations.

Some MPs, however, raised concerns regarding the timing of the bill. Kendu MP Mauroof Zakir questioned whether the creation of a new office is feasible given the current economic climate, citing the rising value of the dollar and the financial pressure on small businesses.

PNC MP Saudullah Hilmy also expressed reservations, suggesting that although the bill is important, the current economic conditions may not allow for the allocation of resources required to set up a new office. He recommended limiting the establishment of new institutions under current financial constraints.

MP Hussain Ziyad of Vikaradhoo echoed these views, stating that the proposed office could result in additional government expenditure and politicised appointments. He suggested implementing IP protection measures within the existing framework of the Ministry of Economic Development instead of creating a separate institution.

The bill will proceed to committee stage for further review and debate.