Firms urged to record IPRs

Chief Commissioner of Customs PNG Ray Paul urges manufacturers and businesses to work closely with PNG Customs and record their Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) with it under its recordation scheme to enable PNG Customs to intervene at the border as required under the Customs laws.
He said: “Without the recordation of IPRs with PNG Customs as required under the Customs laws, PNG Customs is limited only to exercise its ex-officio powers to intervene on IPR infringements, which again is limited by financial resource considerations when the matter becomes contentious and litigious.
“In order for PNG Customs to effectively intervene on IPR infringing goods at the border, I am strongly encouraging manufacturers and businesses to come forward and have their IPRs recorded with PNG Customs so upon intervention, we will refer it to the right holders to initiate legal proceedings and other appropriate measures against the infringers.”
In a statement last month, Manufacturers Council reiterated concerns on the increase of illicit trade in the country.
CEO Chey Scovell had said biscuits, water, canned foods, bleach, detergents, soap, matches, nails, plywood, cigarettes, tea, coffee and even nails had all been counterfeited over the years.
“Consumer safety is our major concern, followed by the brand damage and loss of business by our members and finally our State and citizens for being denied their share,” Scovell said.
“The Council is offended by the suggestion from Customs that illicit trade is happening because we are not separately registering our IP with them. While we have supported and continue to support this facility, in no way allows Customs to abrogate its responsibilities at our borders.”
Paul said: “While we respect the observations of the Manufacturers Council on the issue of illicit trade, we believe it can assist and support our efforts in a more proactive and effective manner rather than preaching in the media.
“PNG Customs is working on the review of Customs legislation to increase penalties to deter illicit trade and expects to swiftly progress it to conclusion in the first quarter of this year for implementation.
“While commending my hardworking and committed officers, there may be few officers with unethical and corruptive behaviour that compromise the efforts of all other officers and the systems and processes installed to combat illicit trade.”