DPIIT Engages Industry To Unravel IPR Provisions In Indiauk CETA In View Of Public Health Concerns

(MENAFN- KNN India) New Delhi, Sep 24 (KNN) The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the Department of Commerce in partnership with the Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL), organised a seminar on 'Demystifying the IPR Chapter in the India–UK CETA' at Vanijya Bhawan.

The session brought together policymakers, industry representatives, academics, and legal experts to examine the implications of the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) provisions in the proposed trade agreement.

Experts at the seminar observed that the IPR chapter seeks to balance innovation incentives with affordable access, particularly in areas linked to public health.

They underlined that safeguards for compulsory licensing and flexibilities under the Doha Declaration remain intact, while voluntary licensing continues to be the industry's primary practice.

Concerns over possible harmonisation of patent processes were addressed, with specialists clarifying that the proposed changes focus on procedural efficiency without compromising India's regulatory autonomy.

Geographical Indications (GIs) were identified as a key area of opportunity, with provisions designed to strengthen protection of Indian GIs in the UK market.

Participants noted that this could benefit startups, MSMEs, and traditional producers while boosting exports and enhancing India's cultural branding.

Speakers emphasised that the IPR chapter aligns with India's existing legal framework and preserves the country's policy space.

They added that the provisions also signal to global investors India's commitment to a modern and credible IP regime.

(KNN Bureau)

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