The Government of Liberia has highlighted ongoing reforms to strengthen the country’s intellectual property system during the 68th Series of Meetings of the Assemblies of the Member States of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), outlining efforts aimed at promoting innovation, investment, and economic growth.
According to a press release issued by the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO), the reforms are designed to improve support for entrepreneurs, strengthen protections for creators and innovators, enhance services for rights holders, and position intellectual property as a driver of industrial development, job creation, and private sector investment.
Delivering Liberia’s national statement at the opening of the WIPO Assemblies on July 7, Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Tarnue N. Jeke, said intellectual property has become an integral part of the government’s national development agenda.
He told delegates that the government is prioritizing the strengthening of Liberia’s legal and institutional framework for intellectual property while expanding access to intellectual property education, innovation services, and business support for entrepreneurs and creators.
Among the key reforms highlighted was President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr.’s submission of eight regional and international intellectual property treaties, conventions, and protocols to the National Legislature for consideration and ratification.
According to the statement, the proposed instruments cover a broad range of areas, including digital copyright, performers’ rights, traditional knowledge, genetic resources, traditional cultural expressions, and the protection of new plant varieties.
Government officials believe ratifying the agreements would align Liberia’s intellectual property framework with international standards while providing stronger legal protections for local creators, researchers, farmers, innovators, and businesses.
Liberia’s delegation to the WIPO meetings includes Director General of the Liberia Intellectual Property Office, Garmai E. Koboi, and Deputy Director General for Industrial Property, Jamus P. Bannah.
The annual WIPO Assemblies bring together member states to discuss global intellectual property policies and cooperation, with participating countries using the forum to share reforms and strategies aimed at fostering innovation and sustainable economic development.
About The Author
