Patent Act to protect innovation in works post Trademark Act

The government has begun work to create a Patent Act that will allow individuals who innovate and create new designs to reserve the right to their intellectual property.

Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed posted on X, stating that the bill is being designed with the help of experts from the World Intellectual Property. He said that the work on the bill started right after the Trademark Bill was passed and ratified.

As per Saeed, with the act that protects intellectual property, an office that will protect said property will be opened in Maldives next year.

"We have brought modern amendments to the Copyright and Related Rights Act that will protect the hard work and rights of innovators and artists. Maldives has also participated in the Berne Convention. This is important work that has been done in a short period of time," said Saeed.

Saeed said that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu took office with the promise of establishing a creative industry in Maldives, with today seeing practical results from that promise.

The Trademark Bill was passed on 10th November. When the bill was passed, Saeed said that it is a big accomplishment for the field of trade.

As per Saeed, the Trademark Act will easily confirm the rights of trademarked products of owners or confirm the exclusive rights of trademarked services that are offered, with it easily being able to confirm the validity of creations as well.

"This will stop the use of registered trademarks that may deceive consumers, with counterfeiting having been made into a criminal offence under this act as well," said Saeed.

Along with trademarking under the act, certificate marks and collective marks can also be registered.