Autodesk, the world leader in 2D and 3D design software, has tied up with Kuwait's Intellectual Property (IP) Department, to promote copyright protection in the country.

The collaboration between the two organisations will focus on the copyrights of the industry-leading software and solutions, and the copyrights of the user’s designs and projects, amidst the widespread incidences of IPR violations both locally and in the region.

“The IP Department is anticipating that implementation of these laws will bring about a change in the Kuwait construction market, and we are looking forward to working with Autodesk and BSA in our common aim of encouraging the use of original software and educating the market on the negative effects of using pirated software,” said Sheikha Rasha Al-Sabah, director, Intellectual Property Department, Kuwait.

The company’s partnership with the Kuwait Government and their mutual IPR goals is expected to reduce the piracy rate and help Kuwait receive the best anti-piracy rating in the Gulf region.

Currently the Kuwait Ministry of Commerce and Industry is also joining efforts with Autodesk to enforce the usage of genuine software licenses, and highlight the consequences of choosing to use unlicensed software.

“Our plan is to prepare for a long term agreement and campaign with the IP Department, which is aimed at significantly curbing design applications piracy in the country,” added Asdaf Al Khalidi, IPR & License compliance executive, Autodesk Middle East.

The move follows the signing of a MoU by the Kuwait Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the IP Department with Business Software Alliance (BSA).

“We are currently working on amending the copyright law in the country and issuing greater sanctions against copyright infringers,” concluded Sheikha Rasha Al-Sabah.-TradeArabia News Service