Bangladesh IP office taps IPAS 4.0 to align services with global standards

The Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) of Bangladesh has deployed the Industrial Property Administration System (IPAS 4.0) software to improve its services via streamlined and automated procedures.

Developed by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), IPAS 4.0 is now being used successfully in other jurisdictions. The use of the software is poised to bring Bangladesh’s IP office up to par with industry standards.

Specifically, the software automates the entire registration process for patent, trademark and industrial design applications. These include examinations, amendments and licensing. IPAS 4.0, therefore, will make the entire registration exercise faster and more convenient for applicants.

“A successful transition to IPAS 4.0 would, expectantly, reduce the manual input required from DPDT officials, allowing applicants for a seamless experience with their online application to examination and certificate issuance for patents, designs and trademarks,” said Abdur Rahman Junaid, head of IT and IP at Rahman’s Chambers in Dhaka. “Ensuring transparency for searching of similar IPs and limiting procedural inadequacies and inefficiencies are also hopeful welcome changes with the deployment of IPAS 4.0.”

He continued: “Additionally, due to the software being in use on a global scale, it is expected to create a more attractive and reliable environment for both local innovators and foreign investors, bringing Bangladesh’s IP sector close to global industry standards, particularly in line with international frameworks, treaties and conventions.”

However, he admitted that transitioning to the new automated system may be difficult for DPTD as the office is heavily reliant on manual workflows. Thus, the transition process requires interventions from relevant administrative and executive authorities at various stages.

“Enhancing computer literacy and IT skills along with relevant training – especially for junior officers – is also a major factor, as human error, more often than not, hinders or rather exacerbates inefficiencies in usual ordinary procedures. However, the prevalent use of the IPAS 4.0 in the subsequent future should effectively help to restrict such eventualities on a broad scale,” Junaid added. 

He revealed that generally, government institutions in Bangladesh are gradually increasing their reliance on automation and technology to better streamline their services.

The introduction of IPAS 4.0 at DPDT was marked by a launch ceremony in May 2025.