The National Workshop on the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) with a focus on Trade and Public Health was successfully held from 27th to 29th January 2025. The workshop brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss the intersection of intellectual property, trade, and public health.
Senior officials, including H.E. Dr. Ahmed Al Mandhari, Undersecretary of Planning and Health Regulations, emphasized the importance of balancing trade and health. The sessions covered key topics such as WTO agreements on health, Oman’s legal framework, pharmaceutical production, technology transfer, and the role of AI in healthcare. Panel discussions featured experts from WTO, WIPO, WHO, and the Ministry of Health, who shared insights on IP licensing, trade secrets, and pandemic preparedness. A roundtable discussion provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and explore strategies for addressing future global health challenges.
Prof. Alka Ahuja and Abdul Salam from the College of Pharmacy attended the workshop, actively participating in discussions on pharmaceutical regulations and public health policies. The event concluded with final reflections and policy recommendations, reinforcing the importance of balancing intellectual property rights with public health needs.