Maldives Launches New Intellectual Property Office Under Ministry of Economic Development

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has established the Maldives Intellectual Property Office (MIPO) under Article 4(a) of the Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act, placing the new body under the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade.

The Act provides a comprehensive legal framework for the protection and promotion of intellectual property in the Maldives, with a particular focus on the commercial sector, while supporting broader economic development objectives.

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The People’s Majlis passed the legislation, and the President ratified it on 21 August 2025. The Act came into force on 1 January 2026.

Following the establishment of MIPO, the President’s Office announced through Directive No. 02/2026 that all official correspondence addressed to the Maldives Intellectual Property Office must reference the number 1136.