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Key Points

India has reaffirmed its commitment to a robust and balanced Intellectual Property Rights regime during UK trade talks. The seminar organized by DPIIT and Department of Commerce clarified key aspects of the IP chapter in the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement. Experts emphasized that the agreement preserves India's policy space while sending positive signals to global investors. The discussions highlighted opportunities for startups, MSMEs, and traditional producers in the evolving global trade landscape.

Key Points: India Affirms Robust IP Regime in UK Trade Talks

  • India maintains policy autonomy in IP framework
  • Voluntary licensing remains preferred industry practice
  • Geographical Indications get stronger UK market protection
  • Trade agreement supports startups and MSMEs
2 min read

India reaffirms commitment for a robust IP regime in UK trade talks

India highlights balanced IPR approach in UK trade negotiations, preserving innovation and public health flexibilities

"The IPR chapter provides a template for future trade negotiations - Commerce Ministry Statement"

New Delhi, Sep 24

India has reaffirmed its commitment to a robust and forward-looking Intellectual Property (IP) regime in the UK trade talks, the Commerce Ministry said on Wednesday.

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the Department of Commerce, in collaboration with the Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL), organised a seminar on "Demystifying the IPR Chapter in the India-UK CETA" here.

Policymakers, domain experts, academia and industry representatives deliberated on the opportunities and concerns related to the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) provisions of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

Experts underlined that the IPR chapter strikes a careful balance between fostering innovation and ensuring access.

The panels dispelled several myths surrounding the agreement and clarified that the IPR chapter does not curtail India's policy space.

"Instead, it reinforces India's ability to frame rules in line with its developmental priorities. It was also underlined that the chapter reflects India's existing legal framework while sending a positive signal to global partners and investors about the country's commitment to a robust and forward-looking IP regime," according to a ministry statement.

It was emphasised that the provisions reinforce safeguards for public health while modernising India's IP framework.

Participants reiterated that voluntary licensing continues to be the preferred industry practice, while the flexibilities relating to compulsory licensing and public health, as enshrined in the Doha Declaration, remain fully preserved.

According to the ministry, concerns over harmonisation of patent processes were addressed, with experts clarifying that these are procedural improvements that in no way affect India's regulatory autonomy.

Geographical Indications (GIs) emerged as a significant area of opportunity, with provisions in the agreement enabling stronger protection of Indian GIs in the UK market -- an important step to boost exports and enhance India's cultural branding globally.

Industry representatives highlighted that this would benefit startups, MSMEs and traditional producers alike.

"The IPR chapter of the India-UK CETA provides a template for future trade negotiations -- combining regulatory rigour with flexibility, supporting innovation while safeguarding access, and strengthening India's position in the evolving global trade landscape," according to the official statement.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good to see they're maintaining the Doha Declaration flexibilities for public health. We can't let trade agreements compromise access to affordable medicines for our people. Balance is key!
A
Arjun K
As someone working in tech, robust IP frameworks are crucial for innovation. Hope this agreement helps Indian patents get better recognition internationally. The UK market access could be a game-changer.
S
Sarah B
While I appreciate the intent, I hope there's proper transparency in these negotiations. Trade agreements often have hidden clauses that affect common citizens. The government should share more details publicly.
K
Karthik V
Geographical Indications protection for products like Basmati rice, Darjeeling tea, and Kanchipuram silk is long overdue. This will help our farmers and artisans get fair value for their unique products. 👍
M
Michael C
India's approach seems balanced - protecting innovation while ensuring public health safeguards. This could set a good precedent for other developing countries negotiating trade deals with developed nations.

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