The North South University (NSU) Center for Legal Research, a research wing of NSU Law, organised a special session on 23 April 2026 marking World Intellectual Property Day.

The programme, titled “Intellectual Property in Sports: Exploring Opportunities and Challenges in Bangladesh”, was held at the Moot Court Room (NAC 616), bringing together academics, legal practitioners, and students.

The session focused on the growing importance of intellectual property rights in the sports sector in Bangladesh, highlighting both opportunities and regulatory challenges.

The event featured Mahua Zahur, Advocate of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, and Md Belal Hossen, Assistant Director (Trademarks, WTO and International Affairs), Ministry of Industries.

As Chief Guest, Abdul Hannan Chowdhury emphasised that intellectual property in sports is expanding beyond traditional boundaries, now extending to digital platforms and online games. He noted that IP violations in sports-related products highlight the need for stronger awareness and enforcement mechanisms.

Special Guest Nasar U Ahmed described sports as an evolving industry where intellectual property plays an increasingly important role beyond entertainment, particularly in commercial and national contexts.

Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences Rizwanul Islam highlighted that intellectual property law extends beyond conventional assumptions and is not limited to developed economies. He also stressed the importance of respecting copyright and recognising its link with sports equipment, innovation, and player-related technologies.

Speaking on trademarks in sports, Md Belal Hossen discussed brand valuation and compared international and local sports branding practices. He noted that sports branding in Bangladesh has not developed significantly due to limited initiatives, and emphasised the importance of the Trademark Act 2009 and Trademark Rules 2015.

Mahua Zahur focused on sports broadcasting and copyright, explaining that broadcasting rights are distinct and provide protection beyond traditional copyright frameworks. She also highlighted the role of broadcasting organisations in both revenue generation and the overall development of sports.

The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, where participants engaged with speakers on legal, commercial, and policy-related dimensions of intellectual property in sports. A formal vote of thanks was delivered by the Coordinator of the NSU Center for Legal Research.