The Department of Patents, Industrial Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) has launched a new Intellectual Property Management Clinic for small and medium-sized enterprises in partnership with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and with support from the Japan Patent Office. The event took place at the FARS Hotel and Resorts in Dhaka.
The programme was opened in the presence of senior officials, including the Chief Guest, Md Obaidur Rahman, Secretary of the Ministry of Industries. Other guests included Md Nuruzzamanndc, Director General (Additional Charge) of the Bangladesh Institute of Management; A.H.M. Jahangir, Additional Secretary of the Economic Relations Division; and Md Toufiq-ur-Rahman, Director General (MEA Wing), Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Steve Thom of WIPO joined the event online.
Twenty SMEs took part, including Twinkle Crafts, JJN International Ltd, Somorupa, Charukunjo, Mekhola, Z Tech, Waste Bangladesh, Drip Irrigation BD Ltd, EduAssist, Kalpatoru, TBS Creations, Authena GI Store, Link Up Technology, Smart Leather, Clay Image, MiliButik Bari, Nawabi Mango, Box of Ornaments, Bidora Bag and Handicrafts, and Fashion Potro Boutique. They will receive training and mentorship from WIPO LLM fellows Mr Ataul Karim, Dr Mohammad Nazmi Newaz, and Mohammad Sayeedur Rahman.
Sarah Nassar of WIPO explained the programme's objectives and activities during the opening session.
In his remarks, Md Obaidur Rahman said: "This program provides much-needed resources, guidance, and training to entrepreneurs and businesses, ensuring they can effectively manage their intellectual assets." He linked strong intellectual property systems to innovation and competitiveness as Bangladesh moves beyond Least Developed Country status.
He urged stakeholders to work together to support SMEs in contributing to economic growth.
Md Belal Hossain, Assistant Director of DPDT, conducted the event proceedings.
The launch of the clinic marks a step towards strengthening the use of intellectual property by SMEs in Bangladesh and supporting innovation in the sector.