‘Bar associations and also Pakistan Intellectual Property Rights Association (PIPRA) should arrange training courses on IP laws especially on new IP areas,’ he said while addressing a conference arranged by PIPRA here on Saturday evening.

Bar associations should work actively instead of performing their role of conventional associations, he added.

‘The IP standards require suppression of unfair competition laws to protect the integrated circuit layout designs, geographical indications, undisclosed information and test data,’ he maintained.

The Chief Justice said that Pakistan Penal Code continues to provide protection of trade marks, property marks etc. by prescribing punishments, both imprisonment as well as fine for counterfeiting or selling goods with false trade marks or property marks.

‘Efficient and equitable intellectual property system can help all countries to realise IP's potential as a powerful tool for economic growth, wealth creation, social and cultural well-being,’ he added.

Iftikhar said judiciary has played a pivotal role in the enforcement of IP rights in Pakistan. Judges have given land mark judgments regarding IP laws including cases decided in favour of multinatinal companies while keeping in view the national and international legal scenario, he said.

Earlier, Chief Justice of Sindh High Court, Justice Mushir Alam, Chairman PIPRA Khawaja Mansoor and experts on IP laws presented their papers.