Newsletter - Latin America IP SME Helpdesk

The Latin America IP SME Helpdesk has just published a new infographic summarising the main IP news regarding Latin America. This infographic is part of our section on IP Yearly reviews, a yearly revision of the main IP news in LatAm since 2021.

Take a look at the new infographic focusing on intellectual property and the e-commerce sector in Latin America.

The Latin America IP SME Helpdesk team has just published a series of case studies showcasing the experiences of European small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as they expand into Latin American countries. Read their captivating stories on this exciting journey into Latin America.

After over two decades of negotiations, the Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the Southern Common Market (Mercosur) represents a major milestone in trade and political relations. The agreement seeks to foster economic integration by removing trade barriers, while also promoting cooperation in crucial areas such as the environment, human rights, and the protection of intellectual property.

The Brazilian National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) reported a 10.3% increase in trademark applications in 2024, reaching 444,037 filings. Registrations for industrial designs and software also saw growth, with software applications rising by 25.5%. However, patent filings experienced a slight decline of 0.8%, totalling 27,701. Additionally, decreases were observed in technology contracts (down 22.5%) and geographical indications (down 3.7%).

Interpol, in collaboration with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), launched Operation CRETA II, an international initiative aimed at combating counterfeit goods across Latin America. The operation, which involved authorities from 10 countries, resulted in the seizure of over 1.3 million counterfeit products, including electronics, cosmetics, and clothing, with an estimated value surpassing $50 million.

In collaboration with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), the Latin America IP SME Helpdesk is hosting a practical webinar on the internationalisation of intellectual property rights, with a focus on trademark searches in India. The webinar will introduce TMview, a comprehensive and user-friendly tool designed to simplify the process of trademark availability searches in this region. Expert speakers will offer step-by-step guidance, helping you navigate the complexities of international trademark registration with ease.

This year, International IP SME Helpdesks’ Annual Stakeholders Event will be hosted by the South Summit Scale-up Series. The event marks the first stop of the South Summit Roadshow as it journeys through Europe’s key hubs for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups. It will bring together impact investors, innovators, intellectual property experts, policymakers, top-tier investors, corporate leaders, and ecosystem champions for a one-afternoon session of inspiring keynote talks, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.