On 21 August 2025, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu ratified Act No. 13/2025 – the Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act, marking a significant milestone in the development of the country’s legal and commercial framework.
The Act was passed by the People’s Majlis during its 23rd sitting of the second session of the 20th Majlis, held on 11 August 2025. It establishes the Maldives Intellectual Property Office (MIPO) – a dedicated authority tasked with strengthening the protection and promotion of intellectual property (IP) in the Maldives. The Act will officially come into force on 1 January 2026, following its publication in the Government Gazette.
Purpose and Scope of the Act
The Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act lays the foundation for a structured and modern IP regime in the Maldives. Its objectives include:
- Fostering innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
- Supporting the growth of the commercial sector.
- Facilitating economic development through stronger IP protections.
Under the Act, the Maldives Intellectual Property Office will operate under the oversight of the ministry responsible for economic policy. The Office will be headed by the Registrar of Intellectual Property, who will be vested with specific statutory powers and responsibilities.
Responsibilities and Powers of the Maldives Intellectual Property Office
The Maldives Intellectual Property Office is entrusted with wide-ranging responsibilities, including:
- Registration of Intellectual Property: Administering the registration of IP rights in accordance with applicable laws.
- Maintenance of Registers: Compiling and maintaining official registers of all registered IP rights in the Maldives.
- International Collaboration: Building partnerships with regional and international IP organizations, and seeking technical and advisory support.
- Treaty Participation and Compliance: Overseeing matters related to the Maldives’ participation in international treaties and ensuring compliance with obligations.
- Monitoring Global Developments: Analyzing regional and international trends in intellectual property law and practice.
- Public Awareness and Education: Conducting education and awareness programs for stakeholders.
- Service Provision and Fee Collection: Delivering services mandated under IP laws and collecting prescribed fees.
- Additional Statutory Functions: Performing any further functions assigned under the Act or related legislation.
Responsibilities and Powers of the Registrar of Intellectual Property
The Registrar, as the head of the Office, will play a central role in ensuring the effective implementation of the Act. The Registrar’s powers include:
- Registration Oversight: Reviewing and deciding on IP applications, issuing notices, and maintaining transparency by ensuring public access to applications.
- Digital Service Delivery: Promoting electronic platforms for IP services and ensuring accessibility of information to the public.
- Register Management: Establishing, maintaining, and updating the official IP register.
- Statutory Duties: Carrying out responsibilities specifically assigned under the Act or other IP-related legislation.
Establishing a Modern IP Framework
With the enactment of this legislation, the Maldives takes a crucial step toward aligning its intellectual property regime with international standards. By creating a specialized institution with clear statutory powers, the country aims to:
- Enhance investor confidence.
- Encourage research and development.
- Protect the rights of creators, businesses, and innovators.
The establishment of the Maldives Intellectual Property Office represents a forward-looking reform that not only protects rights holders but also contributes to sustainable economic growth by embedding innovation at the heart of the country’s development strategy.