KARACHI: The Directorate General of Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement (DGIPRE) Customs, under the exemplary leadership of Mr. Abdul Qadir Memon, has recorded significant milestones in protecting Pakistan’s local industry and business community from the adverse effects of counterfeit products.
During the first six months of FY 2024-25, the DGIPRE has successfully executed 83 cases of seizures and forfeitures of infringing goods, compared to 33 cases in the corresponding period of FY 2023-24. This achievement represents an impressive 100% increase, despite facing logistical and human resource challenges. Notably, for the first time since its establishment, the Directorate General enforced action in Gilgit Baltistan (Sost Dryport), leading to two successful cases of counterfeit goods seizures.
Mr. Memon has also prioritized awareness programs and stakeholder coordination, aiming to educate business communities and traders in remote areas where IPR issues are less discussed. Successful seminars and awareness sessions were conducted in Gilgit Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Baluchistan for law enforcement agencies, the business community, academics, and media personnel. Educational materials were disseminated to inform businesses, consumers, and the public about the importance of respecting IPR laws.
By fostering a culture of compliance and respect for creativity, the DGIPRE aims to create a robust intellectual property rights enforcement framework in Pakistan. All regional directorates in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi have been instructed to hold regular awareness sessions alongside enforcement activities.