World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)’s Director General Mr. Daren Tang has commended the Government of Maldives on the ratification of the Bill on establishing the Maldives Intellectual Property Office b y His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

In his letter to Minister Saeed, Director General highlighted the remarkable progress Maldives made in intellectual property regime, including the first amendment to the Copyright and Related Rights Act, the formulation of the Trademark Bill, and and accession to the Berne Convention of the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, and accession to the Berne Convention of the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, marking the first time in Maldives’ history in securing global protection for its creative works.

These efforts bring tangible benefits to Maldivian creators, entrepreneurs, and businesses. The 2024 amendment to the Copyright and Related Rights Act modernizes the 2010 framework to protect literary and artistic works, including books, paintings, songs, scripts, film, and software, ensuring fair recognition and protection for creators in the digital era. Accession to the Berne Convention further extends this protection to more than 180 countries, making it easier for Maldivian works to be sold, licensed, and promoted abroad without additional registration. The proposed Trademark Bill strengthens brand protection for local businesses and startups, building consumer trust, preventing imitation, and enabling stronger market presence. For international companies, these reforms create a secure environment to protect their brands in the Maldives, while giving Maldivian entrepreneurs the confidence to expand into e-commerce, digital platforms, and cross-border trade.

Earlier this year, a WIPO delegation visited the Maldives Expo 2025 to provide specialized training to 187 participants on intellectual property rights through the “Inaugural Training Program for the Creative Industries of Maldives: Building Creative Legacies with Intellectual Property (IP)”, held from May 25–30, 2025, equipping Maldivian creators and entrepreneurs, with the knowledge and tools to harness IP as a strategic asset.

Reflecting on their visit, Director General Mr. Tang noted that ‘…the enthusiasm they encountered had exemplified the country’s readiness to embrace in full the opportunities that a robust national IP ecosystem can unlock.’ This recognition underscores the Maldives’ commitment, under the leadership of President Dr. Muizzu, to strengthening the Maldives Creative Economy and demonstrates the pivotal role of intellectual property in fostering creative industries, driving economic development, and enhancing export potential.

The Government of Maldives expresses its sincere appreciation to WIPO for their continued support and collaborations. The Government remains dedicated to supporting Maldivian creative industries, fostering innovation, and empowering entrepreneurs through strengthening intellectual property rights.