Copyright
The Dubai-based Business Software Alliance (BSA) announced that the Ministry of Information has conducted a new raid against a well-known computer shop dealing with pirated software in the Emirate. The shop was in the process of selling two high-end PCs loaded with illegal software – both seized as evidence. The computer shop owner is on trial for violating the country's copyright laws.
"Such raids illustrate the high risk involved in using unlicensed software. Perpetrators face harsh penalties as dictated by the country’s copyright laws," said Mr. Ahmad Al-Jassem, Regional Director of Autodesk – a BSA member. "Not only is this law meant to nurture and support the UAE's IT industry, but it also helps to develop the other market sectors that support it." Autodesk's construction applications have been pirated on a large scale in the region.
The BSA has worked closely with the UAE Ministry of Information for several years to assist in building an environment conducive to the growth and success of the information technology sector. For such an environment to materialize, the protection of intellectual property, including software and Internet content, is pivotal.
"This is yet another impressive achievement by the Ministry of Information. We congratulate them on their unwavering commitment in protecting intellectual property rights in this country. The UAE has emerged today as a role model in combating illegal software and maintaining the lowest piracy levels in the region," added Al-Jassim. The BSA believes that the key to controlling the spread of illegal software is education. Raids are only used as a last resort when a company that has been warned several times still refuses to legalize its status. Raids also bring to the fore the serious consequences involved, and act as a deterrent to copyright laws violators.
Brands
Levi Strauss, the UAE distributor of the iconic American brand, called on local importers and resellers of fakes to halt all illegal activities before the end of March. The deadline covers parallel importers of Levi Strauss’ goods active in the UAE market. The Middle East countries, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, have become potential strategic markets in the region to sell the well-known “clothe the world” brand.