The Government’s proposed Trademark Bill will strengthen the Maldives’ business environment and boost investor confidence, Economic Development and Trade Minister Mohamed Saeed has said.

In a post on ‘X’, Minister Saeed described the bill as “unprecedented” and a vital step in protecting intellectual property rights in the Maldives. The Minister further noted that the Bill reflects the Government’s strong commitment to safeguarding intellectual property rights and fostering greater confidence among businesses operating in the country.

The Trademark Bill, submitted to Parliament on behalf of the government by Maduvvari MP Ahmed Zahir, was accepted on Tuesday and has since been referred to the parliamentary standing committee for further review.

The legislation aims to establish a legal framework for the registration and protection of trademarks and related rights. It seeks to promote a business-friendly environment for manufacturers, craftsmen, and service providers by clearly defining the rights associated with both registered and unregistered trademarks.

According to the Bill, a trademark is defined as any sign capable of distinguishing the goods or services of one party from those of another. The proposed law sets out procedures for registration, enforcement, and protection, aligning national regulations with international standards.

If passed, the legislation is expected to strengthen legal certainty for businesses and enhance the Maldives’ appeal as an investment destination.