Trade Secrets Law in Gabon
Here’s an overview of Trade Secrets law in Gabon:
🇬🇦 Trade Secrets Law in Gabon
1. Legal Framework
Gabon does not have a specific standalone trade secrets statute.
Trade secrets protection falls under:
Law on Industrial Property (aligned with OAPI regulations).
Law on Unfair Competition.
Relevant provisions in civil law and criminal law regarding breach of confidentiality and theft.
Gabon is a member of the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI), which provides a regional framework for IP protection, including trade secrets.
Gabon is also a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and complies with the TRIPS Agreement.
2. Protection Mechanisms
Trade secrets are mainly protected through:
Confidentiality agreements (NDAs).
Actions against breach of confidence and unfair competition.
Rights holders must take reasonable measures to maintain confidentiality.
3. Enforcement
Remedies include:
Civil injunctions to prevent misuse or disclosure.
Damages or compensation for losses.
Criminal penalties may apply for theft or unlawful disclosure.
Enforcement is through national courts under Gabonese law and OAPI jurisdiction.
4. International Agreements
Gabon is a member of:
OAPI — African Intellectual Property Organization.
WTO — complying with TRIPS.
Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Law | OAPI regulations, Industrial Property Law, unfair competition law |
| Specific Trade Secret Law | None |
| Protection Mechanism | NDAs, breach of confidence, unfair competition |
| Enforcement | Injunctions, damages, criminal sanctions |
| International Treaties | OAPI, WTO/TRIPS, Paris Convention |
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