Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights with particular reference to the border

  Trademark   Nov 11, 2022   0  Add to Reading List
Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights with particular reference to the border

ABSTRACT

In recent years, the enforcement of intellectual property rights at borders has become an important issue, especially concerning trademark infringement and counterfeit goods. The World Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), among other international organizations, have evaluated the Border Control Initiative.

In May, the Government of India enacted the Intellectual Property Rights (Imported Goods) Regulations, 2007. This rule is based on the World Customs Organization Model Regulations and is intended to give customs officials the power to delay clearance of items suspected of infringing intellectual property. rights in India.

Importers are dissatisfied with customs regulations because they do not balance the interests of importers and rights holders. In addition, customs authorities are empowered to investigate whether there has been an infringement and seize or destroy the item if the right holder is determined to be the actual owner. As a result, they are at risk of being mistreated, and their executions have a tainted history.

INTRODUCTION

Intellectual property rights are one of our most important human rights, so we cannot emphasize they're proper use. Ultimately, protecting intellectual property rights means protecting the human spirit. The human mind is a creative workplace that contributes to today's world's rapid technological progress.

Intellectual Property Rights (IP) are granted to trademarks, designs, ideas, or other types of works. Common types of intellectual property include copyrights, patents, designs, trademarks, geographical indications, industrial designs, trade secrets, and integrated circuit layout designs. This article analyzes the current legal environment for enforcing intellectual property rights, its history, the legal basis for border security measures, and a global perspective.

History of Intellectual Property Rights

The intellectual property first appeared in India in 1856. The main goal was to encourage new ideas and encourage inventors to protect their inventions and grant exclusive rights. Law 6 was the first law on patent rights. First offered in 1856. In 1859 a new and revised law was introduced. In its 30-year history, the law has been amended only once. A bill was introduced in 1965 but never passed. After an amendment to the bill was submitted in late 1967, the Patent Act was passed in 1970.

Legal Framework for IPR

The Government of India has enacted some laws to protect intellectual property rights. Some laws have been implemented against the World Trade Organization, of which India is a member. Certain laws may change after the introduction of the TRIPS Agreement. The Intellectual Property Rights (Imported Goods) Enforcement Regulations 2007 give intellectual property owners opportunities to enforce their rights.

Enforcement of IP Rights Violations at the Border

Infringement of intellectual property rights (IP) occurs when there is an unauthorized use, sale, distribution, importation, or reproduction of protected goods or works. Infringement also occurs when a person uses a similar mark concerning any similar goods or services that would lead to confusion amongst the consumers. Any aggrieved person can take legal action to protect his/her rights and can claim remedies guaranteed under the IP provisions.

Enforcement of IPR is divided into two categories-

  • Territorial Enforcement - Civil or criminal actions for copyright or trademark infringement can be brought against manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, and even consumers in district or magistrates courts with jurisdiction.

  • Border Enforcement: There are two types of products that are enforced at the border. One is currently in transit, while the other is intended for usage within the realm.

Border Security – Legal Provisions

  • Section 11 of the Customs Law prohibits the import and export of certain products. This section  gives governments the power to prohibit the import and export of goods to "protect patents, trademarks, and copyrights."

  • Under Section 2(n) of the Customs Act 1962, the Central Government has the power to issue notices prohibiting the import or export of goods to protect trademarks, patents, and copyrights. 

  • Under Section 53 of the Copyright Act, the Registrar of copyrights may conduct appropriate investigations and decide on any copy of a work made outside India which infringes copyright in India.

A bill has been submitted to amend Section 53 of the Copyright Act to propose that interested parties should notify the Commissioner of Customs directly, rather than submitting a request to the Registrar.

Registered licensees of trademarks may notify customs authorities to prohibit the importation of infringing products under section 140 of the Trade Marks Act 1999. Such notice must be in writing. Any person who disagrees with the Copyright Registrar's final judgment or order may, within three months from the date of the order, appeal to the Copyright Board under section 72 of the Copyright Act.

Present Scenario of IPRs and Border Security

Over the past five years, the Indian government has made significant strides in the field of intellectual property (IP). Notable developments include the implementation of a national policy on intellectual property rights and the establishment of a cell dedicated to the promotion and management of intellectual property rights. The government of  India also commissions examiners to analyze and grant patents.

The US Trade Representative's Special Report 301 puts India in the spotlight amid growing expectations from the Indian government. The number of new companies seeking legal protection is steadily increasing. Borders must be secure to ensure national security and prevent terrorist attacks.

Border Security Measures in India

Illegal and pirated goods can have a significant negative impact on the economy of some companies, and in some cases even cause global brands to withdraw from domestic markets. Participation in these illegal activities affects both consumer awareness and brand quality.

Enforcing intellectual property rights is essential both in Indian law and globally. Border security measures keep counterfeit goods out of certain areas. Indian border security is monitored by Customs. IPR matters are handled by the Central Board of Excise and Customs.

Procedure for Protection Against Import of Pirated Goods at the Border

Articles 51 through 60 of the TRIPS Agreement address border security issues.

  • It demands separate applications for each intellectual property right. • It entails informing Customs officials to take action against the import of illegal objects bearing counterfeit markings after the trademark has been registered.

  • For online registrations, hard copies of the uploaded papers are required; these hard copies must be given to the IPR cell in the Custom House in the right format.

  • After the seizure of infringing goods, customs authorities will notify the importer of these goods of suspension of customs clearance.

  • The owner must provide documentation proving whether the seized product was illegally imported.

  • The holder must complete the procedure within the specified period.

  • If the holder does not comply, the customs officer will notify the importer. Importers are allowed to defend their views.

  • If the product is found to be illegal in any way, the tribunal will issue a confiscation order.

International Considerations

Intellectual property protection has posed challenges to global trade and business. The GATT framework was created by wealthy countries to combat the extraordinary rise in piracy and illegal trade. Madrid Protocol, Berne Convention, and Paris Convention are among the international treaties that  India has ratified. International IP law and Indian IP law are very similar.

Global Perspectives of Protection on the Border

Paris Convention

Under the treaty, the importation of illegal products or goods bearing illegally registered trademarks is prohibited if the country lacks laws permitting the seizure of such goods. Parties to the Convention are obliged to remedy the illegal application of signs to goods. However, the Convention prohibits competent authorities from bringing goods into transit. Such confiscation can only take place at the request of the public prosecutor.

Berne Convention

States party to the Berne Convention have the power to confiscate illegally produced works. Products from countries where such works are not protected will be confiscated.

WTO and TRIPS

Border measures have been established for the detention of illegal products at borders and ports of entry within the framework of the WTO and TRIPS Agreements. Its main goal is to protect the domestic and global economy while avoiding loss to the original owners of goods.

CONCLUSION

Illicit trade poses a threat to the commercial economy and the general public, and deceives the innocent public who place their trust in the quality of legitimate products. The development of copyright and property protection has been impressive, and appears to be a promising and rapid growth for the international economy.

Provisions in the Intellectual Property Rights (Imported Goods) Regulations, 2007 can strengthen customs laws and prevent illegal goods from entering India. Geographical indications laws, patent laws, and other laws must include measures that enable authorities to seize goods that do not comply with these regulations. All individuals and organizations should be aware of intellectual property rights and available defenses.

AUTHOR - MANNAT GAIND

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