The Riyadh Design Law Treaty (RDLT), adopted on 22 November 2024 under the auspices of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), represents one of the most significant developments in global design protection in recent years. Its core aim is to simplify, harmonize, and modernize international design law procedures, making it easier for creators, designers, and businesses to secure and enforce design rights across multiple jurisdictions.
The treaty remains open for signature until 22 November 2025 and will enter into force three months after at least 15 ratifications are deposited.
Why the RDLT Matters
- Simplification of processes – The treaty provides streamlined and uniform filing procedures, reducing bureaucratic and legal hurdles for applicants.
- Cross-border certainty – Designers and businesses will have more predictable legal protection when their designs move across markets.
- Boost for creative industries – Fashion, product design, and technology-driven businesses stand to benefit significantly from this harmonized system.
African Countries as Signatories
As of late July 2025, the following African countries have signed the RDLT:
- Central African Republic
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Morocco
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Sudan
- Zimbabwe
This is a promising sign of Africa’s growing commitment to strengthening intellectual property (IP) regimes and aligning with global best practices. For African designers—particularly in fashion, textiles, and industrial design—the treaty signals a future where designs created on the continent will enjoy broader and more consistent protection internationally.
Where is Nigeria?
Nigeria has not yet signed the treaty. Given Nigeria’s growing creative economy—from fashion and textiles to furniture and digital design—its participation would be a welcome development. Joining the RDLT could:
- Strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional IP hub;
- Provide Nigerian designers with easier access to international markets;
- Attract foreign investment by aligning with global IP frameworks.
Our View at Cardinal Counsel
At Cardinal Counsel, we believe the RDLT is a landmark opportunity for African designers and innovators. Nigeria’s eventual participation would not only benefit local creatives but also reinforce the country’s leadership role within Africa’s creative and industrial sectors.
We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on Nigeria’s position. For now, African designers should be encouraged by the number of regional signatories already committed to the treaty.
If you are a designer, creative business, or fashion entrepreneur looking to understand how the RDLT might affect your IP strategy, Cardinal Counsel is here to help. Reach out at info@cardinalcounsel.co or via our website form.