KARACHI: Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) violations are causing an estimated annual loss of Rs860 billion to Pakistan, according to the Overseas Investors Chambers of Commerce and Industry (OICCI).
A recent survey revealed that trademark infringements remain the most common form of IPR violation in the country.
It also highlighted significant delays in resolving intellectual property disputes, which reportedly extend beyond three years.
The report noted that six out of every ten investors believe there is substantial room for improvement in Pakistan’s IPR regulatory framework.
It further stated that the support provided by customs authorities, police, and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) remains limited in effectively addressing such violations.
OICCI emphasized that weak enforcement of intellectual property laws has become a major economic concern, affecting tax revenues and discouraging foreign investment.
The chamber stressed that foreign investors seek a secure and predictable business environment, adding that strengthening the IPR system has become an economic necessity for Pakistan.
Director General Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) Pakistan, Nauman Aslam, acknowledged that IPR protection is now a critical economic requirement for the country.
OICCI has called on the government to introduce urgent legal reforms in line with TRIPS and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) standards to strengthen enforcement and improve investor confidence.
