DED participates in global workshop on implementation of intellectual property rights

Mr. Mohamed Hilal Al Muroushedi, Director of Compliance Division at DED attended the workshop that is held in association with DED and Dubai Customs. Mr. Al Muroushedi gave a presentation on DED's role in combating infringements of registered trademarks and acts of fraud. Mrs Christine Lagarde, French Minister of External Trade, addressed the gathering.

"The Compliance Division at the DED takes every effort to protect consumers and merchants from duplicate and counterfeit products, and ensures satisfaction of customers while protecting the legal rights for merchants. We are constantly on the look-out for ways and means to combat fake and counterfeit practices and have established several methods to keep them in check,"

said Mr. Hilal.

"Intellectual Property Rights and trademark violations have become significant issues all over the world. Infringements against registered brands and violations against IPRs can tarnish Dubai's reputation as a shoppers' destination," said Mr. Hilal. "Dubai has positioned itself as the premium trading centre of the region due to its business-friendly environment. Therefore, DED is working with other authorities and departments in other emirates such as Dubai Police, Dubai Customs and Ministry of Economy and Planning to control the trading of counterfeit goods."

The Compliance Division carries out organized, as well as, random inspection campaigns in Dubai, in addition to undertaking inspections based on complaints registered by the owners of trademarks or their representatives.

DED is keen to protect genuine trademarks and works to curb fake practices. The Department has increased the number of inspection campaigns to control sale of fake and duplicated products.

During the workshop, DED's representatives exchanged information and shared experiences on combating fraud and trademark infringements with representatives from other countries.

"We work closely with brand owners to ensure greater awareness of issues related to fraud and trademark violation. Once a complaint is registered by the trademark owner of the brand or product and by the general public, the DED officials will launch an investigation into the matter to ascertain the extent of fraud. The Compliance Division also undertakes regular follow-up campaigns based on earlier inspections," said Mr Hilal.