The Government has introduced a bill in the People’s Majlis, aiming to establish a formal legal framework for trademark registration and protection. The bill, tabled by Maduvvari MP Ahmed Zahir, is designed to support local manufacturers and craftsmen by safeguarding their commercial identities and deterring misuse.

The legislation proposes the creation of a system that allows individuals and businesses to register distinctive signs that differentiate their goods or services. Once registered, these trademarks will grant holders exclusive rights, including the ability to prevent unauthorised use in instances likely to cause consumer confusion.

The bill outlines the duration of trademark registration as 10 years, with the possibility of renewal for successive 10-year periods. It further details the legal protections afforded to trademark holders, including the right to seek court intervention through interim measures to prevent infringement or preserve evidence during ongoing cases.

Courts will be permitted to act without prior notice to the accused party in cases where delaying action could result in significant harm. Where infringement is proven, the judiciary will have the authority to award financial damages and order reimbursement for legal costs incurred.

The proposed legislation also criminalises the import, export, and sale of counterfeit goods bearing registered trademarks. Penalties for such offences range from MVR 100,000 to MVR 2 million.

To transition into the new framework, all existing trademarks will need to be re-registered within a 12-month window following the bill’s ratification.  The law is set to take effect one year after its ratification, allowing time for stakeholders to comply with the updated requirements.