Trade Secrets Law in Syria
In Syria, the protection of trade secrets is primarily governed by Law No. 8/2007 on Trademarks, Geographical Indications, Industrial Designs, and Protection Against Unfair Competition. Specifically, Article 116 addresses the safeguarding of commercial secrets and prohibits unfair competition practices, including the unauthorized disclosure of trade secrets
🔐 Legal Definition of Trade Secrets
Under Article 116, a commercial secret is defined as:
Information that is not generally known or readily accessible to individuals who normally deal with such information.
Information that has commercial value because it is secret.
Information that has been subject to reasonable steps by its lawful holder to keep it confidential.
This definition aligns with international standards, emphasizing the importance of confidentiality and the economic value derived from maintaining secrecy.
⚖️ Legal Protections and Enforcement
The law prohibits various unfair competition practices, including:
Unlawful acquisition of trade secrets through theft, bribery, or espionage.
Disclosure of trade secrets without authorization.
Use of trade secrets obtained through improper means.
Violations can lead to legal actions, including civil suits for damages and injunctions to prevent further misuse. The law provides avenues for affected parties to seek redress and protect their confidential information.
🛡️ Practical Measures for Protection
To effectively safeguard trade secrets, businesses in Syria should:
Implement Confidentiality Agreements: Use non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with employees, contractors, and business partners to legally bind them to confidentiality.
Adopt Security Measures: Employ physical and digital security measures, such as access controls and encryption, to protect sensitive information.
Educate Personnel: Train employees on the importance of protecting trade secrets and the company's policies regarding confidential information.
By taking these steps, businesses can enhance their protection against the unauthorized use or disclosure of their trade secrets.
🌐 International Context
Syria's adherence to international treaties, such as the TRIPS Agreement, underscores its commitment to protecting trade secrets and other intellectual property rights. This alignment facilitates cross-border business operations and strengthens the protection of trade secrets within the global marketplace.
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