Mauritius – Incorporation of Harare Protocol into domestic law

Written By Louise Audhlam-Gardiner

Mauritius has taken an important step towards implementing the Harare Protocol on Patents, Utility Models and Industrial Designs (“the Protocol”), following the deposit of its instrument of accession on 27 May 2025.

Amendments to the Industrial Property Act now incorporate the Protocol into Mauritian law, so providing a legal basis for the recognition and enforcement of rights granted through the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO).  Regional patents, utility models and industrial designs designating Mauritius will therefore have the same effect as corresponding national rights.  Where there is any conflict between the Protocol and the Industrial Property Act, the Protocol will prevail.

These amendments mark a significant development in Mauritius’s participation in the regional IP system administered by ARIPO, and provide increased certainty for applicants and rights holders seeking protection in Mauritius through this regional filing system.

Please contact us if you require assistance with your IP in this or any other jurisdiction.

Louise Audhlam-Gardiner

Louise is a Director in the Patents & Designs department. She joined Lysaght in 2001 and has a wealth of experience, with over 27 years working in the IP industry. Louise graduated from Oxford University in 1996 with a First Class Honours degree in Biochemistry.  She qualified as UK Patent Attorney in 2000 and as a European Patent Attorney in 2002. Alongside Richard Stilwell, she oversees and manages the department to deliver a range of services to our clients. In particular, Louise provides advice on global patent filing strategies and overcoming prosecution issues. Louise is also the main contact for Supplementary Protection Certificates (“SPC”) services.

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