Intellectual Property Laws at Singapore
Singapore has established a robust and internationally recognized intellectual property (IP) framework, positioning itself as a global hub for innovation and creativity. Here's an overview of the key IP laws, enforcement mechanisms, and administrative bodies in Singapore:
📜 Key Intellectual Property Laws
1. Patents
Governing Law: Patents Act (Cap. 221
Protection Scope: Grants exclusive rights to inventions that are new, involve an inventive step, and are capable of industrial application
Duration: Up to 20 years from the filing date
Fast-Track System: The SG IP Fast Track programme allows for accelerated examination of patent applications
2. Trademarks
Governing Law: Trade Marks Act (Cap. 332
Protection Scope: Covers signs capable of distinguishing goods or services
Duration: 10 years, renewable indefinitely
International Systems: Singapore is a member of the Madrid Protocol, facilitating international trademark registration
3. Copyright
Governing Law: Copyright Act (Cap. 63
Protection Scope: Covers original literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works
Duration: Life of the author plus 70 years
Digital Content: Protection extends to digital content, including software and online media
4. Registered Designs
Governing Law: Registered Designs Act (Cap. 266
Protection Scope: Covers the visual design of products
Duration: Up to 15 years from the filing date
5. Plant Varieties
Governing Law: Plant Varieties Protection Act (Cap. 232A
Protection Scope: Grants rights to new plant varieties that are distinct, uniform, and stable
Duration: Up to 25 years for trees and vines, 20 years for other plants
6. Trade Secrets
Legal Basis: Common law protection against misappropriation of confidential information
Enforcement: Through civil actions for breach of confidence
🏢 Administrative Bodies
Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS)
Role Administers the registration and protection of patents, trademarks, and design.
Initiatives Offers various programmes to support IP commercialization and dispute resolution.
Ministry of Law (MinLaw)
Role Oversees IP policy and legislation.
Responsibilities Reviews and updates domestic IP protection and enforcement regimes to support economic goal.
⚖️ Enforcement and Dispute Resolution
IP Tribunal Handles disputes related to IP rights, including oppositions, revocations, and infringement action.
WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Centre Offers alternative dispute resolution services for IP and technology-related dispute.
🌐 International Engagement
**World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)*: Member since 199.
**World Trade Organization (WTO)*: Member since 1995, bound by the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIP).
*ASEAN: Active participant in regional IP initiatives.
*Global Patent Prosecution Highway: Engaged in international cooperation to expedite patent examination processes.
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