Opinion | Nepal’s trademark challenges
Summary
Nepal faces challenges in trademark protection as local companies imitate international brands, highlighting gaps in legislation and enforcement that undermine trust and deter foreign investment.
Key Points
- Nepal's growing market has attracted global brands but faces issues with local products imitating international brands.
- Nepal's Patent, Design and Trademark Act, 2022 does not automatically protect foreign trademarks unless registered locally.
- The Department of Industry exhibits institutional apathy, with many trademark disputes pending and unauthorized registrations continuing.
- Weak judicial expertise and enforcement hinder effective resolution of trademark infringement cases, necessitating legislative reform and stronger adjudication.
