FBR and IPO have signed MoU to share data and enforce IP rights

Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan) have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for enforcing intellectual property rights in the country. The step has been taken to facilitate businesses, promote foreign investment and mobilize nation-building resources.  

“The signing of this MoU is a significant development as it allows FBR to use data maintained by IPO-Pakistan to crack down on illegal use of IPRs. It is also a tool for detecting original and fake border-trade consignments and curbing smuggling at borders,” said Chairman FBR Mr. Tariq Bajwa while speaking at the signing ceremony at NTC Headquarters, Islamabad. This (MOU) covers data sharing and cooperation in areas of regulatory and supervisory actions.

Director General IPO-Pakistan Engr. Aamir Hasan and Director General IPR Enforcement FBR, Mr. Imtiaz Ahmad Khan were the signing authorities of the memorandum.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Tariq Bajwa said that FBR has already frames IPR rules; further sharing of IPO data will help in structuring of these rules which would be subsequently enforced with the help of a software system. He further thanked IPO-Pakistan for signing the MoU and recording of IPR data.  He said the MOU would not only facilitate sharing of data but also open doors for creating awareness and imparting training about intellectual property issues and taking necessary measures for protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights.Efforts would be made to coordinate with trade associations and other organizations for awareness on intellectual property rights and in extending mutual facilitation in inquiries, investigations and proceedings in IPR offences.

Chairman IPO-Pakistan, Mr. Shahid Rashid said on the occasion that IPO-Pakistan had close collaboration with IPR Enforcement agencies including FBR to effectively address issues of piracy and counterfeiting in the country.

Signing of this MOU with FBR is a milestone towards relentless enforcement drive at our borders.

IPO-Pakistan is the focal body of Federal Government for registration and protection of IP rights i.e. Copyrights, Trademarks, Patents and Industrial Designs. Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) through its enforcement arm (Pakistan Customs) is responsible for border measures against piracy and counterfeiting. Both organizations recognize the need for coordination to effectively carry out their statutory responsibilities, and maintain oversight in IPR enforcement, in line with Government’s policy of trade facilitation and compliance with international treaties.

Source: FBR