Geographical Indications Law in Oman
Certainly! Here’s an overview of Geographical Indications (GI) Law in Oman:
🇴🇲 Geographical Indications Law in Oman
1. Legal Framework
Oman protects Geographical Indications under its Intellectual Property Law, which is aligned with international standards such as the TRIPS Agreement.
| Legal Instrument | Description |
|---|---|
| Industrial Property Law (Royal Decree No. 67/2008) | The main law regulating trademarks, patents, industrial designs, and geographical indications. |
| Implemented by | Oman Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Investment Promotion, specifically the Intellectual Property Department. |
| Additional regulations | Ministerial decisions and executive regulations on trademarks and GIs. |
2. Definition and Scope
A Geographical Indication in Oman is a sign used to identify a good as originating from a specific place, region, or country, where a given quality, reputation, or other characteristic is essentially attributable to its geographical origin.
Protection covers mainly agricultural products, foodstuffs, handicrafts, and other goods with a specific geographical link.
3. Registration Process
GIs must be registered with the Intellectual Property Department.
Application must include:
Name and address of applicant
The GI to be protected
Description of the product and its link to the geographical area
Evidence of distinctiveness and reputation
The application is examined for compliance and published to allow opposition.
Once no opposition is upheld or resolved, registration is granted.
4. Duration of Protection
Protection is granted for 10 years from the date of registration.
It can be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods, provided the GI is still in use and meets conditions.
5. Rights Conferred
The registered GI owner has the exclusive right to prevent unauthorized use of the GI.
Misuse, imitation, or false indication of origin are prohibited.
Protection also extends to preventing the use of any sign that may mislead the public regarding the geographical origin.
6. International Obligations
| Treaty / Agreement | Status |
|---|---|
| WTO - TRIPS Agreement | Oman is a WTO member and complies fully |
| Paris Convention | Member |
| Arab League Intellectual Property Cooperation | Member |
7. Enforcement
Enforcement is via civil courts.
Remedies include injunctions, damages, and fines.
Customs authorities are empowered to seize goods infringing GIs.
8. Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal basis | Industrial Property Law (Royal Decree No. 67/2008) |
| Administered by | Oman Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Investment Promotion |
| Registration | Required for protection |
| Duration | 10 years, renewable indefinitely |
| International law | TRIPS compliant, Paris Convention member |
| Enforcement | Civil remedies and customs enforcement |
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