Monrovia, Liberia – Citing increasing noncompliance among companies and users of artistic property, the Ministry of Commerce & economy has issued a strong warning concerning widespread copyright infringement within Liberia’s creative economy.
The Ministry voiced concern that music, films, and other creative works are being used commercially without the required authorization, in violation of the 2016 Intellectual Property Act and related rules, according to a press release from the Ministry of Culture.
The Ministry further stated that the tendency jeopardizes Liberia’s standing under international trade requirements in addition to undermining local creators. In an attempt to solve the problem, MoC has made it mandatory for any companies that use creative property for profit to obtain the required licenses and copyright clearances before doing so.
The Ministry announced plans to start regular monitoring and inspections to guarantee compliance, working with the Liberia Intellectual Property Office and the Copyright Society of Liberia.
Mobile network operators, lodging facilities like hotels and bars, distributors of films and music, broadcasters, and importers of electronic storage devices are among the industries designated for enforcement. However, the Ministry cautioned that anyone who disobey the new regulation run the danger of being sued.
Reported by: Prince Saah
