Microsoft Gulf and Kuwait's Ministry of Commerce and Industry coordinate raids against two local computer shops

In its capacity as a member of the Business Software Alliance (BSA), the international association established by the software industry to promote a safe and legal digital world, Microsoft provided the essential information that helped Kuwaiti authorities identify and raid the illegal traders. The raids in the two shops resulted in the seizure of one computer each loaded with pirated and unlicensed versions of various Microsoft programs.

"This latest anti-piracy initiative is a strong message from the Kuwaiti government that it will not tolerate crimes violating intellectual property, especially those that compromise our growing IT sector. In collaboration with concerned parties such as the BSA, we will continue the fight against similar social and economic threats,"

said H.E. Rasha Al-Sabah, Intellectual Property Rights Manager, Kuwait.

Kuwait had earlier signed a Memorandum of Understanding with BSA authorizing a comprehensive anti-piracy advertising and media campaign. The Memorandum includes the promotion of Kuwait as a major regional and international IT business destination and improved public awareness on the socio-economic significance of safeguarding intellectual property rights laws.

"Nefarious elements continue to challenge Kuwait's commitment to becoming a piracy-free business environment. The BSA will continue to support local private and public sector programs and initiatives to ensure that software piracy in the country is nipped in the bud. We also call on individuals to avoid falling victims to profiteers and report suspicious piracy-related activities to the appropriate authorities or organizations such as the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Information and the BSA," said Jawad Al Redha, BSA Co-Chairman in the Middle East.