Intellectual Properties Law (IPR)

IPR is considered as a powerful tool for economic growth in many sectors. For example, intellectual property reforms in Jordan have greatly benefited the country's economy in general and its pharmaceutical sector in particular. Jordan's pharmaceutical sector has gained new export markets and has started to engage in innovative research as a result. New health sectors, such as contract clinical research, have emerged, and health-sector employment has grown as well.

Laws are consistent with the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) now protect trade secrets, plant varieties, and semiconductor chip designs in Jordan. Registration of copyrights, patents, and trademarks is required. Copyrights are registered at the National Library and patents are registered with the Registrar of Patents and Trademarks, which is part of Jordan's Ministry of Industry and Trade. Jordan has signed the Patent Cooperation Treaty and the protocol relating to the Madrid Agreement concerning the registration of marks, but ratification was still pending in early 2005. Jordan has also acceded to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) treaties on copyrights (WCT) and performances and phonograms (WPPT).