The Riyadh Design Law Treaty, adopted by WIPO member states in late 2024, is a major step toward creating a more consistent and accessible global system for protecting industrial designs. The treaty introduces a harmonized legal framework that simplifies registration procedures, reduces legal uncertainty, and lowers costs making it easier for designers and businesses to protect their creative works.
At Am Badar & Am Badar, a leading IP law firm in Indonesia, we welcome this development as part of our ongoing commitment to serving both local and international clients in the field of intellectual property Indonesia, including patent searches, trademark registration, and copyright protection.
Background: From Concept to Agreement
The road to this treaty began in 2005 within WIPO’s Standing Committee on the Law of Trademarks, Industrial Designs and Geographical Indications (SCT). The aim was to address fragmented procedures across different countries when it came to industrial design protection.
After years of discussions, and a temporary pause to address the needs of developing countries—including debates about the inclusion of traditional knowledge and cultural expression—a breakthrough was finally reached in 2022. The WIPO General Assembly agreed to convene a Diplomatic Conference, which led to the treaty’s formal adoption in Riyadh in November 2024.
Key Features of the Treaty
As an experienced Indonesia IP consultant and patent law firm Indonesia, we highlight the following features that will benefit designers, brands, and legal professionals alike:
Simplified Procedures
The treaty sets out standardized application requirements, improving predictability. Applicants can represent their designs using photos, graphics, or even videos, depending on national regulations. Multiple designs can also be submitted in a single application, significantly cutting costs.
The filing process is simplified: to receive a filing date, only minimal information is required—just a clear design image, applicant identity, and basic contact information.
The treaty also standardizes post-registration actions such as renewals, ownership transfers, and licensing, which helps maintain legal clarity across jurisdictions.
Stronger Protection for Designers
Designers now have a 12-month grace period after first public disclosure to file an application without losing their rights. There’s also an option to defer publication for up to six months, which allows more flexibility in aligning legal protection with marketing strategies.
Missed deadlines will no longer mean losing protection altogether. The treaty introduces remedies such as restoring priority claims or correcting filing errors.
Future-Proof Structure
The Riyadh Design Law Treaty includes 34 substantive articles and 18 procedural rules. An Assembly of Contracting Parties has the authority to amend the rules, ensuring the treaty can evolve over time. It also includes provisions for technical assistance and capacity-building, especially for developing and least-developed countries.
What It Means for IP Owners in Indonesia
For businesses, creatives, and IP owners in Indonesia, the treaty will help reduce barriers to design protection and make it easier to register industrial designs across borders.
Whether you’re seeking help with Indonesia trademark registration, involved in Indonesia trademark litigation, or need advice on copyright infringement in Indonesia, this treaty sets a new global standard that benefits both local and international stakeholders.
Final Thoughts
As a trusted copyright law firm Indonesia and litigation lawyer in Jakarta Indonesia, we at Am Badar & Am Badar are committed to keeping our clients informed and protected. We offer end-to-end services—from Indonesia patent search to representing you in complex IP litigation matters.
If you have any questions about the Riyadh Design Law Treaty or how it might affect your business or designs, don’t hesitate to reach out at ambadar@ambadar.co.id. Our team is here to support your growth in a global IP landscape.
