India Signs the Riyadh Design Law Treaty (DLT) to Boost Design Protection
India has signed the final draft of the Design Law Treaty (DLT) in November 2024. Thus, it reaffirms its leadership in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Also called the Riyadh Design Law Treaty, this treaty will harmonize procedural aspects of design law globally. It was negotiated under the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Riyadh.
Key Highlights of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty
- Simplified Design Protection. The treaty streamlines formalities related to industrial design protection. It makes it easier and more affordable for designers to secure rights domestically and internationally.
- Global Standardization. By reducing administrative burdens, the DLT standardizes registration procedures. All in all, it benefits independent designers, startups, and SMEs while promoting global innovation.
- Electronic Systems. The treaty encourages contracting parties to adopt electronic industrial design systems and facilitate the exchange of priority documents.
- Flexibility for National Policies. Countries can choose whether to protect partial designs and benefit from a 12-month grace period after the design’s first disclosure. Consequently, this ensures flexibility for national regulations.
Impact on India
India’s signing of the treaty highlights its commitment to equitable access to design protection. Over the past decade, design registrations in India have tripled. Markedly, there’s been a 120% rise in domestic filings in the last two years. Also, last year saw a 25% growth in design applications.
Focus on Traditional Knowledge
A significant feature of the DLT is its ability to preserve traditional knowledge (TK). Contracting parties can request applicants to provide data on traditional cultural manifestations relevant to a design’s registration eligibility.
By addressing compliance costs and offering flexibility, the DLT aligns with India’s goals of promoting innovation. It also safeguards its unique cultural heritage.
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