Islamabad, Farukh Amil, Chair of the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan), emphasized the importance of intellectual property rights (IPRs) for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan. He stressed the need for awareness about the protection and enforcement of patents, copyrights, and trademarks to combat counterfeiting and piracy, thereby flourishing businesses at both national and international levels.

According to Press Information Department, Amil addressed these issues during an awareness session organized by the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with IPO-Pakistan. He highlighted IPO-Pakistan’s role in fostering an IP-friendly environment, crucial for promoting business, creativity, and innovation. Amil pointed out that the lack of an IP culture and weak IP enforcement are significant challenges in Pakistan. He stated that IPO-Pakistan is actively working to position Pakistan as a compliant and responsible country in the global IP landscape by enhancing public awareness, practice, and enforcement.

Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, acknowledged the vital role of SMEs in the economy and urged IPO-Pakistan to simplify IP registration processes. He suggested the introduction of mobile apps for facilitating online registration of copyrights and trademarks for SMEs. Bakhtawari also emphasized the critical role of IPO-Pakistan in fostering innovations and startups, contributing to the country’s economic growth through strict enforcement of IPRs.

Faad Waheed, Senior Vice President of the ICCI, remarked on the necessity for a robust IP system in Pakistan to encourage innovation, business growth, and investment. The business community actively engaged in the session, asking questions about IPRs, and received detailed responses.