Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) provide certain exclusive rights to the inventors or creators over the creation of their mind, in order to enable them to reap commercial benefits or reputation from their creative efforts. Effective protection of IPR is critical for attracting and retaining Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country as well as for promoting research and innovation in the economy. Most of the foreign investors, members of OICCI, are the proud owners of IPR in the form of Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights, etc. Therefore, close monitoring of IPR regime in Pakistan, in close coordination with OICCI members and the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan), has always been a fundamental part of the OICCI agenda. OICCI actively participates in IPO-Pakistan’s policy board meetings and shares its input. Our other initiatives in this regard are as follows:

• OICCI IPR Survey: OICCI conducts this survey annually amongst its members to gauge the IPR environment in the country and highlight members’ concerns. The survey results are shared with key stakeholders.
• IPR Awareness Session: OICCI conducts IPR Awareness sessions in leading universities for youth to make them aware of and sensitive to the infringement of intellectual property.
• OICCI IPR Manual: OICCI published IPR Manual which aims to provide a systematic approach and guidance of the existing laws relating to IPR regime in the country and provide guidance for handling IPR violations or enforcement issues in the most effective manner. The latest edition of IPR Manual will be launched shortly.
• Engagement with Law Enforcement Agencies: OICCI remains regularly engaged with Pakistan Customs, Police, FIA and Judiciary for effective enforcement of IP laws in Pakistan.