The Oman Roundtable gathered representatives from BSA and the Public Prosecution to discuss key measures to further improve Oman's major anti-piracy initiatives, which have been largely credited for limiting the economic losses sustained by the domestic software sector and the country in general.

"The pertinent laws and the support of the authority concerned prove vital in efficiently tackling IPR violations. Breaching intellectual property rights is a crime that is punishable by the Omani law and is implemented through the several regulations passed by the Government of Oman, aimed at protecting intellectual property. We are committed to punish the offenders and file a case against them in the court of law," said Muhammad Bin Ali AlHadidi, Deputy Public Prosecutor.

Jawad Al Redha, BSA Co-Chairman in the Gulf Region, said: "This roundtable sustains the momentum of Oman's intellectual rights agenda by strengthening government and private sector collaboration on copyright protection initiatives. Through the support of the Government IPR Office, the country will be able to gain further ground in its fight against piracy."

Among the recommendations discussed were more effective and widespread educational campaigns, the imposition of stronger deterrent penalties against violators of intellectual property rights (IPR), and more regular enforcement initiatives against illegal resellers.

The BSA has been a leading figure in the global fight against cyber criminality through initiatives that focus on educating consumers and providing assistance to authorities in conducting anti-piracy enforcement activities. Established in 1988, BSA has programs in more than 80 countries worldwide, including the Middle East.

Global Arab Network