Overview
Intellectual property in the Maldives is still in development. Currently, there is no unified legislation in force specifically dedicated to trademarks, patents, or industrial designs. Rights holders often resort to alternative strategies — notably, the publication of cautionary notices in widely circulated local newspapers — to draw attention to their interests.
Due to the absence of comprehensive statutory protection, trademark and patent owners, as well as design creators, generally must rely on either international obligations or informal means to assert their rights. Compared to jurisdictions with established IP offices, the Maldives offers a more limited framework for enforcement and registration.
International Conventions
The Maldives is a member of the World Trade Organization, thus falling under the scope of the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). It is not a party to other major IP treaties and conventions.
TRIPS Agreement
This information does not constitute legal advice; it is for informational purposes only.