Gulf BPG Conducts Face-to-Face Workshop for Authorities in Oman

Gulf BPG organized a face-to-face workshop in collaboration with key Omani authorities, including the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, the Consumer Protection Authority, and Customs.

The event opened with a warm welcome from Gulf BPG Board Member Bassel El Turk, who emphasized the importance of public-private sector cooperation in strengthening intellectual property (IP) protection. He expressed appreciation to the participating departments for their commitment to advancing IP enforcement in Oman.

Mr. Ahmad bin Saif bin Said Al-Sheedi, Head of the Industrial Inspection Department, delivered remarks on behalf of Mr. Imad bin Khamis bin Saeed Al-Shukaili, Director General of Standards and Metrology, thanking Gulf BPG for its continued collaboration and highlighting the significance of united efforts between the public and private sectors.

Following the opening, Bassel El Turk led a comprehensive legal presentation covering IP fundamentals, counterfeiting threats, and the challenges facing both brands and consumers. Topics included imitation products, unfair competition, smuggling, the effects of parallel imports on local trade and revenue, and international judicial rulings.

The workshop featured expert-led presentations from various brands, followed by interactive sessions where delegates visited booths showcasing authentication methods. These hands-on demonstrations helped participants learn how to identify counterfeit versus genuine products.

Participating brand owners included Apple, Louis Vuitton, RIMOWA, Berluti, MOBIS, Danfoss, Syngenta, WD-40, JTI/PMI (Tobacco), and Unilever. The event was highly engaging and drew strong participation from stakeholders.

In recognition of outstanding cooperation, Gulf BPG presented appreciation awards to the Omani authorities, celebrating their continued efforts and support in protecting intellectual property rights.

The event concluded with Mr. Imad bin Khamis bin Saeed Al-Shukaili presenting an award to Gulf BPG, acknowledging its valuable contribution to IP enforcement and capacity-building initiatives in the Sultanate.