President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has established the Maldives Intellectual Property Office (MIPO).
The office will be operated under the oversight of the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade.
MIPO was established under Article 4(a) of the Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act which was passed in parliament in August, 2025 and ratified by the President on August 21. It came into effect on January 1.
The Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act defines a legal framework for the protection and promotion of intellectual property in the country, especially within the commercial sector, the President's Office stated.
MIPO will be led by the Registrar of Intellectual Property. An appointment to this post has to be made by the ministry within 30 days of the Act coming into force.
Responsibilities of MIPO
- Registration of intellectual property
- Forming, maintaining and updating a register of intellectual property
- Establish links with regional and international intellectual property organizations, and seek technical assistance and advice from them
- Research of regional and international developments in the area of intellectual property
- Conducting awareness programs for the public on laws and rights granted relating to intellectual property
- Provision of services as defined in law related to intellectual property and managing related fees
- Other responsibilities defined in the laws
The Act also outlines the requirements of the registrar, and details their appointment and dismissal, as well as duties and responsibilities. The Act also includes policies governing administrative staff of MIPO.
