Delhi High Court Closes Pakistani Lawsuit in India-Pakistan Basmati Rice Intellectual Property Dispute
Published on: December 5, 2023.
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India’s Delhi High Court has closed a lawsuit filed by three Pakistani entities over the dispute regarding the use of the term “Super Basmati” by Indian exporters. The entities claimed that they already had a rice variety called ‘Super Basmati’ and that India’s use of the same name was a case of passing off.
The lawsuit was initially filed in 2008, but it remained dormant for several years due to non-prosecution by the Pakistani entities. As a result, the Delhi High Court decided to close the case.
Basmati rice is a type of long-grain rice known for its fragrance and delicate flavor. It is primarily grown in the Indian subcontinent, with both India and Pakistan being major exporters of this prized rice variety.
The dispute between India and Pakistan over the use of the term “Super Basmati” is representative of the broader competition between the two countries in the global rice market. Both India and Pakistan are significant players in the rice export industry, with each country vying for a larger share of the market.
With this lawsuit now closed, Indian exporters can continue to use the term “Super Basmati” without any legal obstruction. This is a significant victory for Indian rice exporters, as it allows them to maintain their market position and continue their trade with the term that is widely recognized and associated with high-quality Basmati rice.
It is important to note that Basmati rice is a premium variety, known for its long grains, unique aroma, and excellent taste. The demand for Basmati rice is high in several countries, including the Middle East, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This demand contributes to the economic growth of both India and Pakistan, as they are major suppliers of this sought-after rice variety.
In conclusion, the Delhi High Court’s decision to close the Pakistani lawsuit against Indian exporters over the use of the term “Super Basmati” is a significant development in the ongoing competition between the two countries in the global rice market. Indian exporters can now continue to export Basmati rice using the term “Super Basmati” without any legal obstacles, ensuring their continued success in the international market.
Source: [Bar & Bench](https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/india-pakistan-basmati-rice-ip-dispute-delhi-high-court-closes-pakistani-lawsuit-for-non-prosecution)
