Development of Intellectual Property Laws and Foreign Direct Investment in Jordan

Intellectual property rights (IPRs) have become increasingly important. In particular, increased international trade, global economies, and developing technologies have played a key role in the development of Intellectual Property laws. These factors determine the need for strong IPRs regimes to attract foreign investments in local enterprises. The same factors also encourage contributions for transfer of technology, and the creation of new jobs in the host country. Seeing the benefits of foreign investment and the significance of Intellectual Property laws in encouraging these, Jordan has taken important steps to reform its legal environment for the protection of intellectual property rights. This paper will examine Jordanian Intellectual Property laws concerning the promotion of foreign investment. In particular, the paper will explore the constant need for improvements in legislation, administration, the enforcement of Intellectual Property laws and the necessity to bring them in line with international standards.