Protected Designs

A design is protected if it is new and if it does not consist of scandalous design or a design contrary to morality, public order or public interest. A design is new if it has not been made available to the public anywhere in the world before the date of application for registration.

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How they protected

They are protected upon registration with the Intellectual Property Office. A registered design is protected for five years and renewable for two more periods of five years. You make the application to the IP Office using the form D1 with fee ( See regulations)

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Rights

The registered owner has the exclusive right to the design or the right against the unauthorized coping or imitation of the design.

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Why they are protected

They make articles attractive and appealing and therefore increase the commercial value and the marketability. The protection assures a fair return on creativity and investment and promotes creativity. They help economic development by encouraging creativity in industry and arts and crafts. Such creativity expands commerce and creates more job opportunities.

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Registration abroad

Designs registered in Sri Lanka are valid only in Sri Lanka. If you do business in other countries it is advisable for you to register your design in those countries. You have to make applications in each country where you seek the protection under the respective national law. However, you can claim priority under the Paris Convention for the protection of Industrial Property in its member countries.
( within 6 months from the date of application in Sri Lanka)

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