Vientiane, Laos – As of mid-2025, Laos is accelerating reforms in its intellectual property (IP) system, modernizing legislation, streamlining administrative procedures, and integrating into global IP networks. These efforts aim to enhance innovation, attract foreign investment, and support economic growth through improved IP rights protection.
Below is a summary of the most recent and impactful developments:
1. Laos Launches National Intellectual Property Strategy
On May 26, 2025, the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) of Laos, in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), officially launched the development of a National IP Strategy. This initiative aligns with Laos’ 2026–2030 national development agenda, and focuses on:
+ Fostering innovation and creativity;
+ Enhancing IP enforcement capacity;
+ Raising public and institutional awareness of IP rights
The launch event brought together over 100 stakeholders, including representatives from government ministries, academia, legal sectors, and private industry—highlighting strong cross-sector support for IP reform.
2. European Patent Validation Agreement Now in Effect
As of April 1, 2025, Laos joined the European Patent Validation System through an agreement with the European Patent Office (EPO). This means:
+ European patents can be validated in Laos with the same legal status as national patents.
+ The validation process is now simpler, faster, and more cost-effective
+ Patent holders gain greater legal certainty and protection in the Lao market
This development positions Laos as a more attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) and technology transfer in the ASEAN region.
3. 2023 Intellectual Property Law: Key Amendments
The revised Law on Intellectual Property (No. 50/NA) was published in the Lao Official Gazette on March 1, 2024. This updated legal framework introduces several important reforms:
Major Updates:
+ Trademark Protection: 10-year term retained; better recognition of well-known marks using global reputation evidence.
+ Trade Name Registration: Now mandatory for legal protection.
+ Cancellation Grounds: Bad-faith or invalid registrations may be canceled within five years.
+ Exhaustion of Rights: Introduces first-sale doctrine, potentially permitting parallel imports.
+ Disclosure Standards: Accepts online and electronic disclosures for patents and industrial designs.
+ Copyright Reforms: Includes electronic works and extends protection for applied arts from 25 to 30 years.
+ Anti-Counterfeiting Measures: Strengthens enforcement by prohibiting the commercial use of counterfeit IP
These changes reflect Laos’ commitment to aligning with international IP standards, particularly WIPO guidelines, and enhancing its legal infrastructure for creators and businesses.
4. Digital Transformation: E-Filing of IP Documents
On February 22, 2025, DIP issued Notice No. 198/DIP, allowing the electronic submission of key IP documents, including:
+ Powers of Attorney (POA);
+ Certificates and declarations;
+ Application forms for trademarks, patents, and designs.
Under this new rule, original physical documents are no longer required, unless authenticity is challenged. This e-filing system improves accessibility, reduces processing times, and supports a digital-first approach to IP administration in Laos.
5. ASEAN IP Cooperation Plan (2026–2035)
In October 2023, Laos participated in the regional planning for the ASEAN Intellectual Property Cooperation Action Plan (2026–2035). With the support of WIPO and ASEAN bodies, the plan aims to:
+ Harmonize IP laws and enforcement mechanisms across ASEAN;
+ Strengthen regional capacity in IP education, technology, and dispute resolution;
+ Enable greater protection of IP in the digital economy and cross-border trade.
Laos’ active involvement in this initiative demonstrates its intention to become a key regional player in IP development and protection.
For expert guidance on patent validation, trademark registration, or IP law compliance in Laos, please contact our team: bud-prairie@bud-prairie.com
