Intellectual Property Laws at Bahamas

20 May 2025 --
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Bangladesh has established a comprehensive legal framework to protect intellectual property (IP) rights, aligning with international standards and fostering innovation. Here's an overview of the key IP laws and their provisions:

🧠 Key Intellectual Property Laws in Bangladesh

1. Patents

Bangladesh Patents Act, 2023: This Act replaced the 2022 version, introducing significant changes to enhance patent protection and administration. Notable provisions include

Extended Patent Duration: Patents are granted for 20 years from the filing date, up from the previous 16 years

Administrative Centralization: The Director General of the Department of Patents, Industrial Designs, and Trademarks (DPDT) now oversees patent matters, streamlining the process

Annual Fee Payment: A fixed three-month period is designated for annual fee payments, with no extensions allowed

Compulsory Licensing: The government can issue compulsory licenses in cases of public interest or emergencies

2. Trademarks

Trademarks Act, 2009: This Act governs the registration and protection of trademarks in Bangladesh. Key features include

Initial Protection: Trademarks are protected for 7 years from the application date

Renewal: Protection can be renewed indefinitely for additional 10-year periods

Registration Process:Applications are processed by the DPDT, which maintains the official trademark registry

3. Copyrights

Copyright Act, 2000 (Amended in 2005): This Act provides protection for original works of authorship. Key aspects include

Duration:Copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus 60 years

Scope: Covers literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, as well as cinematographic films, sound recordings, and computer programs

Registration: While protection is automatic upon creation, registration with the Copyright Office provides legal advantages in enforcement

4. Industrial Designs

Patents and Designs Act, 1911: This Act, though dated, continues to govern the registration of industrial designs. Key points include

Protection Period:Initial protection is for 5 years, with the possibility of renewal for additional 5-year terms

Eligibility: Designs must be new and original to qualify for protection.

5. Geographical Indications (GIs)

Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 2013:This Act provides protection for products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin.

🏛️ Enforcement Mechanisms

Administrative Enforcement The DPDT plays a crucial role in the administrative enforcement of IP rights, including the seizure of counterfeit good.

Civil Enforcement Rights holders can initiate civil lawsuits to seek remedies such as injunctions, damages, and the destruction of infringing good.

Criminal Enforcement Certain IP violations, such as copyright infringement and trademark counterfeiting, are subject to criminal penalties under the Penal Cod.