Commerce Ministry Warns Creative Contents Users -Against Violation Of General Business Laws

The Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MOCI) said it has learnt that Users of Creative Contents (Music, Arts, Movie etc..) in their 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 is said to be a tacit violation of the General Business Laws, the Intellectual Property Law and further undermines Liberia’s commitment to International Trade Rules and Obligations over Intellectual Property and the country’s very own Creative/Entertainment Industry.

 Against this backdrop, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MOCI) said it 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 to 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,” a release from the ministry has indicated.

The ministry has advised Creative Contents Users including but not limited to the following entities should take heed and be in compliance:

Mobile Network Operators (MMO)

Centers of Hospitality (Hotels, Motels, Bars, Restaurants, Casinos, Gaming Centers, etc.) Traders, Whole-sellers, Retailers of Music, Movie etc.

Broadcasters (TV & Radio Stations, etc.)

Importers of Transmittable, Receivable and Storage Devices, amongst others.

Commerce Minister Dargoseh