India signs final act of Riyadh Design Law Treaty; to strengthen IPs

India has signed the final Act of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty (DLT), reaffirming its commitment to fostering inclusive growth and strengthening its intellectual property (IP) ecosystem, the commerce ministry said on Tuesday.

- Dhirendra Kumar

The treaty, adopted after two decades of talks under the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), seeks to harmonize industrial design protection processes globally, benefiting stakeholders across industries, including small and medium enterprises.

WIPO said last week that it will now be easier, faster, and more affordable for designers worldwide to protect their work both at home and abroad.

This marks a major step forward in empowering designers and fostering international collaboration in design.

The ministry said the DLT introduces a standardized framework for industrial design registration, significantly reducing procedural complexities and applicants' administrative burden.