Sri Lanka Moves to Modernize Music Sector Intellectual Property Laws

A key meeting on the matter was held at the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development under the chairmanship of Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe.

Representatives from the All Ceylon Performers and Songwriters League (ACPOSL), the National Intellectual Property Office, and international organizations such as the International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) took part in the discussions.

The meeting focused on aligning Sri Lanka’s legal framework with the International Intellectual Property Agreement. Stakeholders stressed the urgent need to update outdated laws and establish stronger enforcement mechanisms to safeguard the rights of local musicians.

To speed up the process, it was agreed that a special committee will be formed to prepare comprehensive recommendations within three months. Authorities believe the reforms will create a more secure and supportive environment for Sri Lankan musicians, encouraging creativity while ensuring fair compensation for their work