The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) has welcomed a new UK government report on Pakistan’s intellectual property regime. The findings highlight the urgent need for stronger action against piracy and counterfeiting.
The report, prepared by the UK Intellectual Property Office and the Department for Business & Trade, estimates that copyright piracy and trademark counterfeiting caused losses of nearly £2.2 billion in 2023. This amount equals about Rs. 832 billion and shows the scale of the challenge facing Pakistan’s economy.
British Deputy High Commissioner in Karachi, Lance Domm, stressed that effective intellectual property enforcement is key to business confidence and economic growth. He explained that the UK is ready to support Pakistan through policy dialogue, technical cooperation, and awareness-building programs.
OICCI Secretary General, M. Abdul Aleem, said the findings confirm the Chamber’s repeated calls for urgent reforms. He added that tackling piracy is not only a legal matter but also an economic necessity. Weak enforcement risks revenue losses, consumer harm, and reduced foreign investment.
OICCI has long worked with the Intellectual Property Organisation of Pakistan (IPOP) to strengthen enforcement. The Chamber has consistently advocated for a better-resourced IPOP and stronger coordination among enforcement agencies.
The report recommends creating a national strategy that is intelligence-driven and focused on enforcement. It also stresses the importance of raising public awareness to reduce acceptance of counterfeit goods in the market.
OICCI has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the government, enforcement bodies, and international partners. The Chamber believes that better protection of intellectual property will support innovation, strengthen the business environment, and reduce economic losses linked to piracy.
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