President Muizzu Establishes Maldives Intellectual Property Office to Safeguard Innovations

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has officially established the Maldives Intellectual Property Office (MIPO) under Article 4(a) of the Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act. The office, which will operate under the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, was created to strengthen the protection of intellectual property in the Maldives. The Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act was ratified on August 21, 2025, after being passed by Parliament on August 11, 2025, and came into force on Thursday. The MIPO will be led by the Registrar of Intellectual Property, who will be appointed by the Economic Minister. The office's responsibilities include registering intellectual property, collaborating with international organizations, conducting research, and raising public awareness about intellectual property rights. This move aims to foster innovation and safeguard creative works, including trademarks, copyrights, patents, industrial designs, and geographical indications.