OAPI leads the way in global design protection strategies

From 11 November 2024 to 22 November 2024 the WIPO Diplomatic Conference took place in Riyadh, with the focus being the adoption of the Design Law Treaty (DLT). Over 1000 delegates from across the world met with the view of implementing this ambitious project aimed at simplifying and harmonising the enforcement of design protection across the globe.

The African Intellectual Property Organisation (OAPI) has been on the frontline of this project, especially considering the recent international conference on the promotion of Industrial Designs held in Ouagadougou, being the first of its kind. The conference led to the “Ouagadougou Appeal” in which the OAPI members states have committed to develop a coherent strategy for the sector, amongst other goals, to ensure that industrial designs are made a real economic lever and to stimulate innovation in design.

The future DLT treaty will be aimed at a) simplified registration procedures, b) ensuring faster protection of creations, c) reduced costs and d) facilitating international filings. The adoption of the treaty is said to hold various benefits, including an increase in design filings, business development, inspiring creativity and innovation which leads to accelerated economic development.

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