PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Intellectual Property Rights
It has come to the attention of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MOCI) that Users of Creative Contents (Music, Arts, Movie etc..) in the majority are not in compliance with the rules governing the commercial use of those materials bearing the Intellectual Property Rights of persons and institutions having ownership as prescribed by section 9.6, 9.35 and 9.36 of the 2016 Intellectual Property Act and ensuing Copyright Regulations.
This constitutes a tacit violation of the General Business Laws and the Intellectual Property Law, and it undermines Liberia's commitment to International Trade Rules and Obligations over Intellectual Property and our Creative/Entertainment Industry.
As such, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MOCI) is categorically clear and requires full compliance by all registered businesses using Creative Contents within the bailiwick of Liberia by obtaining the needed Copyright Clearances and Licenses before the commercial exploitation of Creative Contents as prescribed by Law.
In furtherance of ensuring compliance, the Ministry, working along with its implementing partners, the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO) and the Copyright Society of Liberia (COSOL), will conduct routine surveillance and inspection exercises.
This announcement must claim the attention of Creative Contents Users, including but not limited to the following entities:
1. Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)
2. Centers of Hospitality (Hotels, Motels, Bars, Restaurants, Casinos, Gaming Centers, etc.)
3. Traders, Whole-sellers, Retailers of Music, Movie, etc.
4. Broadcasters (TV & Radio Stations, etc.)
5. Importers of Transmittable, Receivable, and Storage Devices, amongst others.
Signed: Tarnue N. Jeke
Deputy Minister for Administration
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PRESS RELEASE COPYRIGHT
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