The government’s proposal to establish a Maldives Intellectual Property Office has drawn criticism from opposition lawmakers, who argue that the office should function as an independent institution rather than a government body, in order to safeguard it from political influence.
The bill presented by Kudahuvadhoo MP Hussain Hameed of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), outlines the creation of a state-run body responsible for managing IP-related matters including registration, maintaining a national IP registry, collaborating with international IP bodies, and promoting awareness of IP rights. The bill also empowers the office to participate in international conventions and conduct research in the field of intellectual property.
According to the bill, the new office will be headed by a Registrar of Intellectual Property, appointed and dismissed by the Economic Minister. The Economic Minister will also be responsible for procuring staff and resources for the office, while remuneration will be determined by the National Pay Commission based on recommendations from the Minister.
Lawmakers from the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) have raised several concerns, focusing on the lack of independence of the proposed institution. MP Hussain Ziyad noted that such institutions in other countries typically function independently, and said that this model is important to safeguard against undue influence. He also objected to the extent of control the Economic Minister would have over the new office, arguing that such an arrangement undermines the credibility of the institution.
Ziyad further questioned whether the Ministry of Economic Development is equipped to take on such a responsibility, especially given the current economic situation. He suggested that allowing Parliament to play a role in appointing the Registrar would help increase public trust in the office. Additionally, he criticised the absence of any income-generating mechanisms in the bill, saying it implies that the office will be fully reliant on the state budget, further straining public finances.
Other MDP MPs echoed similar concerns. MP Ahmed Shamheed from South Hulhumale’ said the bill essentially sets up a regulatory authority to implement related legislation such as copyright and trademark laws. However, he expressed concern over the concentration of authority in the hands of the Economic Minister, and called for the bill to be revised during committee review.
MP Ameen Faisal of Kanditheemu acknowledged the importance of intellectual property regulation but questioned the timing of the bill. He argued that the Maldives, while not lacking in innovation, may not yet be prepared for the kind of IP enforcement frameworks seen in more developed economies. He also criticised the government’s broader economic strategy, suggesting that there appears to be little effort to ease the financial burden on ordinary citizens.
Despite the opposition’s reservations, the government maintains that the bill is part of a broader strategy to stimulate innovation and support economic growth through a formal IP protection mechanism. The bill defines intellectual property broadly, covering trademarks, copyrights, patents, industrial designs, and geographical indications.
The bill is now expected to proceed to committee for further review and potential revisions.
