President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has formally established the Maldives Intellectual Property Office (MIPO) under Article 4(a) of the Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act, marking a major step toward strengthening intellectual property governance in the country.

The newly formed Office will operate under the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, with a mandate to oversee the protection, regulation, and promotion of intellectual property rights in the Maldives. 

The legislation provides a comprehensive legal framework aimed at safeguarding intellectual property, particularly within the commercial sector, while supporting national economic growth and innovation.

The Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act was passed by the People’s Majlis and ratified by President Muizzu on 21 August 2025, with the Act officially came into force on 1 January 2026.

In line with the establishment of the Office, the President’s Office announced that all official correspondence addressed to the Maldives Intellectual Property Office must reference the number 1136.