Parliament has approved legislation to establish the Maldives Intellectual Property Office, a dedicated government body tasked with overseeing and protecting intellectual property rights in the country. The bill, backed by the government and sponsored by ruling PNC’s Kudahuvadhoo MP Hussain Hameed, was passed unanimously on Monday with all 68 lawmakers present voting in favour.
The Maldives Intellectual Property Office Bill, submitted to Parliament on 15 July, sets out a framework to safeguard intellectual property, promote innovation, and support economic growth. The new office will be led by the Registrar of Intellectual Property, appointed and dismissed by the Minister of Economic Development and Trade. Salaries for the role will be determined by the National Pay Commission in consultation with the minister.
The office’s responsibilities will include registering intellectual property, maintaining an updated registry, and collaborating with international intellectual property organisations. It will also participate in global conventions, monitor regional and international developments in the field, and conduct public awareness programmes on intellectual property rights.
Additionally, the office will provide services under intellectual property laws, process associated fees, and carry out other legal obligations. The bill defines intellectual property to include trademarks, copyrights, patents, industrial designs, and geographical indications, aligning with global standards for IP protection.
Lawmakers have framed the creation of the Intellectual Property Office as a step towards strengthening the Maldives’ capacity to protect creative works, support entrepreneurs, and attract innovation-driven investments.
