Intellectual Property Laws at Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has established a robust legal framework for the protection of intellectual property (IP) rights, encompassing patents, trademarks, industrial designs, and copyrights. Here's an overview of the key IP laws and enforcement mechanisms in PNG:

Key IP Laws in Papua New Guinea

1. Trademarks Act (Ch. 385)

Administered by Intellectual Property Office of PNG (IPOPN)

Coverage Protection for distinctive signs used to identify goods or service.

Infringement Occurs when unauthorized use of a registered trademark is made, potentially leading to legal action.

2. Patents and Industrial Designs Act (2000)

Enacted 2000

Administered by IPOPG

Patent Protection:

Duration 20 yeas

Rights Conferred Exclusive rights to exploit the patented invention commercially.

Infringement Unauthorized use, manufacture, or sale of the patented invention constitutes infringement.

Industrial Designs:

Protection Aesthetic aspects of product.

Enforcement Owners are responsible for monitoring and enforcing their right.

3. Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act (2000)

Enacted 200

Administered by IPOPG

Coverage Protection for original literary, artistic, and musical works, as well as neighbouring rights for performers, producers, and broadcaster.

Infringement Unauthorized reproduction, adaptation, or distribution of protected work.

🌐 *International Treaties and Memberships

PNG is a member of several international treaties, enhancing its IP protection framework:

World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)– Joined on June 10, 196

World Trade Organization (WTO)– Joined on June 9, 199

Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property– Acceded on July 15, 199

Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)– Acceded on June 14, 203

🛡️ IP Enforcement Mechanisms

IP Enforcement at the Borde

PNG Customs enforces IP rights by detaining and forfeiting counterfeit or pirated goods under the Customs Act (Ch. 11. Right holders are encouraged to register their IP with PNG Customs to facilitate enforcement.

Court Action

IP owners can seek remedies through the courts, including injunctions, damages, and orders for the inspection of infringing gods.

🏢 Intellectual Property Office of PNG (IPOPNG)

Locatio: Level 1, IPA Haus, Cnr of Munidubu Street, Konedobu, Port Moesby

Services: - Registration of trademarks, patents, and industrial designs. - Provision of information on copyright protection. - Administration of IP rights and enforcement mechanisms.

LEAVE A COMMENT

0 comments