Although the Industrial Property Act of Liberia was published in 2003 it has not yet been passed by Parliament. However, in practice, with effect from 1 January 2009, its provisions have been complied with by the patent office under an executive decision.
Liberia is a member of the Paris Convention, ARIPO (Harare Protocol) and PCT.
Patent protection is available via a national filing or an ARIPO application designating Liberia. The 2003 Act (which, as indicated above, is being applied), incorporates the Harare Protocol (which regulates patent and design filings in ARIPO) into Liberia’s national law. However, the validity of an ARIPO application designating Liberia is uncertain as it is not clear whether the 2003 Act is legally in effect. The 2003 Act also provides for PCT filings. Accordingly, patent protection may be obtained via the PCT, but again there is some uncertainty in regard to validity.