Copying of ideas affecting entrepreneurs, says designer

By CLARISSA MOI
ONE of the biggest challenges that local entrepreneurs face is the copying of ideas, design concepts and fabrics, says entrepreneur and fashion designer Annette Sete.
During a panel discussion on International Women’s Day organised by the business and professional women’s club in Port Moresby yesterday, Sete said local entrepreneurs created things out of nothing, from the things found in the environment such as coconut shells and natural fiber.
“In terms of prints and garments, we try to do a lot of Papua New Guinea items that are not necessarily available in the market,” she said.
“We attract a lot of interest from the public which is a great thing for us.
“But our challenge is that we have a lot of people copying our ideas, design concept and the fabric.
“We have taken the time to educate Papua New Guineans about buying fake or counterfeit products and also to try to protect our designs.
“The biggest problem is that we have agencies with laws to protect us but not enforced.
“If I don’t do it, who’s going to do it?”
Sete said they would fight a case in court to be a precedent for Papua New Guineans to protect their creative work whether art, music or anything else.
They are trying to make sure agencies such as Customs Services and the Investment Authority (IPA) would support their fight.