The Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA) is collaborating with the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) to curb cross-border violations or infringements by enforcing Intellectual Property Rights protection (IPRs) laws.
BIPA’s Chief Executive Officer Viviene Katjiuongua said IPRs protection cannot exist without an effective and balanced enforcement infrastructure. She added that enforcement is a backbone in preserving the credibility of any legal system.
“That is why it is ever critical for BIPA, as the competent authority on IP protection, to foster stronger ties with NAMRA in the area of enforcement of such rights, especially at the cross-border areas,” said Katjiuongua.
“I would like to re-emphasise that IP violation or infringement hinders economic growth by discouraging investment, decreasing innovation, discouraging research and development, diminishing financial benefits from creation, and may pose harm to consumers.”
Katjiuongua said it was imperative that a multifaceted and inclusive approach is employed to reduce infringements of intellectual property rights.
“Therefore, it is important that the enforcement infrastructure is built on collaboration and cooperation of role-players. As BIPA, we welcome the collaboration with NAMRA as we built a fit-for -purpose IPR enforcement infrastructure,” she added.
The BIPA boss further stressed that the protection of such sectors benefits the economy through increased contribution to GDP, employment creation, tax revenues and promotion of foreign direct investments and technology transfers.
“Intellectual Property is a catalyst for a knowledge-based economy, which spur innovation and creativity as well as empowering businesses to drive profit through competitiveness and increased market share. It further benefits consumers through quality products and services; and expansion of the body of knowledge to enlighten society.”
Katjiuongua further feels that: “we have an opportune time to revive our dreams, businesses, economy, nation building; and leveraging on human intellect as our starting point.”
