The Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MOCI) has issued a public notice urging all users of creative content — including music, arts, and movies — to comply with Liberia’s Intellectual Property laws.
According to the MOCI, many businesses are operating without the necessary permissions, violating sections 9.6, 9.35, and 9.36 of the 2016 Intellectual Property Act and related Copyright Regulations.
The Ministry emphasized that such noncompliance undermines Liberia’s commitment to international trade rules and threatens the growth of the country’s creative and entertainment sectors.
All registered businesses are now required to obtain the proper copyright clearances and licenses before commercially using any creative content.
To ensure enforcement, MOCI, in collaboration with the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO) and the Copyright Society of Liberia (COSOL), will carry out routine inspections and surveillance exercises.
The advisory specifically targets mobile network operators, hospitality centers, music and movie retailers, broadcasters, and importers of media devices, among others.
The Ministry urged immediate adherence to the law to avoid penalties and support Liberia’s thriving creative industry.
In another development, the Liberia National Tourism Authority held a successful roadshow aimed at raising awareness about compliance, licensing, and fee payment, as well as guiding businesses within the cultural, creative economy, and tourism sectors on how to properly register and become compliant.
Speaking during the public engagement, LNTA Director General Princess Eva Cooper emphasized that compliance with registration and licensing requirements is essential for ensuring quality service delivery, enhancing visitor confidence, and promoting sustainable tourism development.
