Government Submits Trademark Bill to Parliament to Strengthen Intellectual Property Rights

News

A Trademark Bill aimed at reinforcing intellectual property protections for local creators, artists, and businesses has been submitted to the People’s Majlis on behalf of the government.

The bill was tabled by Ahmed Zahir, Member of Parliament for Maduvvari and representative of the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC). The first reading has been completed, and parliamentary debate on the bill is now underway.

The proposed legislation seeks to establish a comprehensive legal framework for the registration and protection of trademarks in the Maldives. It is intended to safeguard the rights of Maldivian creators and enterprises, providing a legal basis to enforce trademark ownership and to deter misuse or infringement.

Key provisions of the bill include:

1. Facilitating trademark registration for individuals and businesses
2. Prescribing penalties for infringement and non-compliance, with fines ranging from MVR 100,000 to MVR 2 million
3. Authorising Maldives Customs Service to seize imported goods suspected of violating trademark rights

The bill is part of the government’s broader efforts to promote innovation, protect creative work, and strengthen the legal environment for business and entrepreneurship in the country.

Further deliberations in Parliament will determine the bill’s final provisions and timeline for implementation.