India stands firm on building a strong and innovative intellectual property (IP) system as part of its trade talks with the UK, the Commerce Ministry announced Wednesday. This comes amid ongoing negotiations for the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which could reshape how the two nations handle intellectual property rights (IPR).
In New Delhi, officials from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and the Department of Commerce teamed up with the Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL) to host a seminar titled “Demystifying the IPR Chapter in the India–UK CETA.” The event brought together policymakers, experts, academics, and industry leaders to discuss the opportunities and challenges in the agreement’s IPR rules.
Experts at the seminar stressed that these IPR provisions strike a smart balance. They encourage innovation while keeping essential access open for everyone, especially in areas like public health. Panels tackled common myths head-on, making it clear that the chapter won’t limit India’s freedom to set its own policies. Instead, it supports India’s goals for growth and development.
The ministry’s statement highlighted how the chapter aligns with India’s current laws and sends a strong message to global partners and investors about the country’s dedication to a modern IP regime. It also strengthens protections for public health and updates India’s IP framework without cutting corners.
Key points included the continued preference for voluntary licensing in the industry, alongside full safeguards for compulsory licensing and public health flexibilities from the Doha Declaration. On patent processes, experts eased worries about “harmonization,” explaining these are just practical tweaks that preserve India’s control over regulations.
One bright spot? Geographical Indications (GIs). The agreement opens doors for better protection of Indian GIs—like Darjeeling tea or Banarasi silk—in the UK market. This could supercharge exports, spotlight India’s cultural heritage worldwide, and help startups, small businesses (MSMEs), and traditional producers thrive.
Overall, participants see the IPR chapter as a blueprint for future deals. It mixes strict standards with smart flexibility, boosts innovation, protects access, and bolsters India’s role in global trade. As India-UK CETA talks progress, this focus on IPR could pave the way for a win-win partnership.
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