"Latin America IP SME Helpdesk - Newsletter" Newsletter Issues

Intellectual property abroad: how to protect your creations in e-marketplaces (25/10/2021)

E-commerce has become something more than a complement to traditional shopping, and its increasing trend has attracted new buyers and sellers, with all the risks involved. Join this webinar and find out which are the keys to operate safely, know the Intellectual Property policies of the main platforms and how to get the best out of them so that your clients receive only what you want to offer them.

From Lab to Market - Successful Technology Transfer Journeys (19/10/2021)

In this virtual event you will be introduced to the EPO's new case study series with valuable insights from two successful technology transfers from European universities. Each of them will highlight how IP supported the technology transfer and commercialisation and its different roles throughout the process concluding with key takeaways for those active in the field. This webinar is part of a training collaboration between the European Patent Office and the European IP Helpdesk.

Trade Secrets and Data access (13/10/2021)

On behalf of DG GROW, EISMEA has commissioned a study to investigate the extent to which the legal protection of trade secrets can help create a safe environment for the business-to-business data sharing. This initiative, aiming to inform the European Commission for future policy initiatives, is open and every company is invited to answer those questions that are relevant to them. They do not need to be experts in all the covered areas to provide valuable information.

IP at trade fairs in Brazil (13/10/2021)

Trade fairs are an excellent opportunity for EU SMEs to reach new customers and potential partners, strengthen the company’s image, analyse the local market and display their products and services. However, these commercial events can also involve exposure to certain risks, such as counterfeiting and piracy of new products or the potential loss of the novelty of your inventions. In this sense, bear in mind that displaying products at trade fairs constitutes ‘publication’, which may jeopardise a potential patent or design application in Brazil.

IP licensing in Latin America (13/10/2021)

There are many ways for an SME to exploit its intellectual property rights (IPRs) abroad. Since opening a local subsidiary is not always viable, IP licensing is one of the most effective and secure ways to broaden IPR exploitation. IP licensing consists of one or more agreements (licensing agreements) in which the IPR owner (licensor) allows the licensee to exploit the IPR in the region in exchange for royalties.

Open licensing in Latin America (13/10/2021)

In a broad sense, an open licence is a copyright licensing scheme that allows the free distribution of copies and, sometimes, modified versions of works. These licences often require that the same rights are passed on to the modified versions of the work. Open licences can apply to any kind of work protected by copyright: software, literary works, images, music... However, bear in mind that open licences apply to copyright only but not to other IPRs (patents, trade marks, etc.) The open licensing system should be considered as complementary to copyright protection.

Protección de la propiedad intelectual en América Latina (06/10/2021)

During this seminar, which will be given in Spanish, our IP experts will explain the main issues related to the protection of Intellectual Property, which must be taken into account when internationalising a business to Latin American markets, with special focus on Chile, Mexico, Peru and Colombia.

Chile and the adherence to the Madrid Protocol - What can we expect (21/09/2021)

In our latest blog post, IP expert Diego Acuña (ClarkeModet Chile) analyses the results we can expect for Chile with the incorporation of this system, and what could be the legal, social and economic implications, as well as the advantages and challenges that this may represent for our country, which are closely related to the definition of public policies that Chile wishes to adopt.

The Low Carbon Business Action LATAM (17/09/2021)

This EU-funded Doing-Business platform aims to develop B2B relations between EU providers of low carbon technologies and companies based in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, or Colombia that are seeking sustainable solutions.

2021 Enterprise Europe Network Annual Conference (29/09/2021)

The EEN annual conference provides a global forum for partners, representatives from European institutions, as well as key stakeholders to meet and learn from each other, and to improve the quality and collaboration of EEN services. The event will also include B2B matchmaking sessions, which are set to start on the same day as the conference and it will end on October 4, 2021. Register now and book your matchmaking session with our IP experts!

Chem-Match: Corporates meet Startups 2021 "Green & Digital" (21/09/2021)

This event brings together companies working in chemistry, biotechnology, bioelectronics, environmental technologies and sustainability, digital process management and digital innovation to promote chemical open innovation. Register now and take the opportunity to meet our experts of the international IP SME Helpdesk. They will be available to explain our service offers and explain any queries you may have about IP in Latin America, India, China and South-East Asia.

Mexican National Customs Agency to enforce IP rights at the Mexican border (21/09/2021)

The creation of this agency, considering the international treaties of which Mexico is now party to, gives hope that customs may actually be granted the power to act without an injunction. This way, they will be able to secure and seize infringing goods that violate IP rights. Whether or not the agency will be able to act ex officio and seize counterfeit goods without an injunction will be revealed once we get the Internal Regulations of the National Customs Agency of Mexico.

Intellectual Property: why and how it can be the safest gateway to Latin America (16/08/2021)

More and more companies are moving in international environments, where it is essential to consider some aspects regarding the protection of copyright, trade marks and patents.

New study reveals that sectors that make use of IP represented 55% of the GDP in Peru (28/07/2021)

A study carried out by IP Key Latin America and the National Institute for the Defense of Competition and the Protection of Intellectual Property (INDECOPI) has revealed that industries that protect their Intellectual Property the most have a productivity above the sector average, representing more than 55% of the Peruvian GDP between 2015-2018.

IP cost tool for EU SME doing business in Latin America (28/07/2021)

This free tool provides SMEs with a pre-evaluation of costs related to the management of Intellectual Property Rights in the Latin American countries covered by the Helpdesk. It allows users to freely calculate the application and renewal fees for copyright, trade marks, design patents, invention patents and utility models in all Latin America countries.

TMclass new inclusion: Honduras (02/08/2021)

The General Directorate of Intellectual Property of Honduras Flag of Honduras (DIGEPIH) is now included in TMclass. This service, provided by EUIPO, offers users the opportunity to search for and translate goods and services to and from any of the 44 languages available, as well as verifying the terms’ correct classification under the Nice classification.

Recent changes in non-traditional trade mark registration requirements in Colombia (16/07/2021)

A non-traditional trade mark can be described as a type of distinctive sign that is not limited to its visual perception and that does not fall within the old-style categories of trade marks such as nominative or figurative. Considering the growing importance of this type of dynamic and innovative signs, the Colombian Trade Mark Office felt the need to update certain aspects regarding registration requirements.

Expanding your business abroad - How to commercialise your IP? (22/07/2021)

IPRs are a key component of the assets of a business, and they are pivotal to build an efficient protection strategy. However, only a few companies know how to properly generate revenues and create added value from their IPRs. If you want to learn more about IP commercialisation and its various tools (licensing, franchising, JV, etc.), register for our webinar and don't miss this unique opportunity to receive tips from our IP experts.

IP support for EU SMEs in Latin America: an interview with EniferBio (14/07/2021)

EniferBio is a Finnish SME that offers green technologies and sustainable solutions. In this interview, Simo Ellilä, CEO and co-founder, talks about his experience in dealing with IP management in Latin American countries with the support of the Latin America IP SME Helpdesk.

INAPI Chile founds the Latin American Network of IP and Gender together with Colombia, Costa Rica and Peru (15/07/2021)

INAPI Chile, SIC Colombia, INDECOPI Peru, the National Registry of Costa Rica and the National Institute for the Defense of Competition, have all formalised a Memorandum of Understanding for the foundation of the Red Latinoamericana de PI y Género (Latin American Network of IP and Gender). The main aim of this new network is to create environments in which to exchange experiences and reflect on strategies and tools to enhance the role of women in intellectual property (IP), and in innovation in general.

EXPO VIRTUAL ALEMANIA (06/07/2021)

The German Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Latin America (AHKs) organise EXPO ALEMANIA VIRTUAL, a multi-sectoral digital fair for European businesses willing to do business in Latin America. The Latin America IP SME Helpdesk will be present at the fair through a virtual booth. You can visit us and ask for a meeting with our IP experts.

Mobile World Congress 2021 (05/07/2021)

ISE & MWC/4YFN Open Innovation Challenge 2021 is a B2B international meetings event between all agents of the innovation ecosystem: corporations, investors and solution/technology providers. Join us and meet the IP Helpdesk experts through virtual meetings!

Chile ratifies the Madrid Protocol (28/06/2021)

The Chilean Senate (upper house) has just ratified the protocol concerning the Madrid Agreement, relative to the international registration of trade marks. The system allows to protect a mark in a large number of countries by obtaining an international registration that has effect in each of the designated contracting parties.

IBA Bucharest - National Research and Development Institute for Food Bioresources (21/06/2021)

IBA Bucharest is a public research entity with activity in 4 strategic areas: food safety, nutrition, consumer behaviour and food (bio)technologies. Besides the research activity, the institute also carries out third-party services, which consist of: laboratory analyses, personalised food production for consumers with special needs, as well as notifications regarding food supplements. IBA is an industry-oriented organisation with a keen interest in developing products and technologies, analytical laboratory methods, studies and strategies.

5 Benefits of IP for your business (28/06/2021)

Intellectual Property is a powerful tool to benefit from your company's intangible assets. Take a look at this YouTube playlist if you want to learn more about the advantages and possibilities of a proper management of your intangibles.

International Business: Access to new markets in Latin America and the Caribbean (25/05/2021)

In this webinar, organised by the Faculty of Business of Kaunas College, together with the Kaunas Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts and the Enterprise Europe Network, you will find out which are the main IP barriers and IP tips when doing business in Latin America.

IP Rights as a tool for internationalisation: TRADE MARKS (20/05/2021)

This infographic provides you with the basics regarding trade marks: definition, reasons to register your distinctive signs or how to register your brand. This is only some of the information you will find in this infographic.

IP Rights as a tool for internationalisation: COPYRIGHT (20/05/2021)

We provide you with a user-friendly overview of everything you must know about copyright: From understanding the basic concept of copyright to why, when, where and how to protect creations in Latin American countries.

EU and US takes on third countries IP systems: a focus in Latin America (20/05/2021)

Within a difference of three days only, the European Commission and the US Trade Representative have published their Report on the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights in third countries, as well as the 2021 Special 301 Report, respectively. While the nature of both documents is similar, the conclusions reached are not necessarily the same considering EU and US priorities and interests do not always coincide, neither do the consequences of being included in one or the other – as a matter of general trade policy in the EU and US.

Changes in the Colombian Administrative and Contentious-Administrative Procedural Code (20/05/2021)

The Congress of Colombia has approved the Law 2080 (January 25, 2021), reforming the Colombian Administrative Procedural Code, involving industrial property. What are the main changes affecting Colombian industrial property?

Changes in Mexico for filing voluntary divisional applications (20/05/2021)

Since last November 2020, the Federal Law for the Protection of Industrial Property in Mexico came into force and changed the rules for filing voluntary divisional applications. Under the new rules, voluntary divisional applications are not accepted unless the first Mexican patent application is still pending.

Global Cosmetic Cluster Europe (20/05/2021)

The European cosmetics industry is represented by a European cosmetics cluster, Global Cosmetics Cluster-Europe, and focuses on a common strategy to boost the internationalisation of SMEs in the cosmetic industry.

ENRICH in LAC (20/05/2021)

Funded by the European Commission, the objective of the ENRICH in LAC project is to encourage the cooperation between Europe and Latin America among regarding their scientific and technological agents and to foster their competitiveness, as well as to contribute to tackling global challenges.

Berlin Partner for Business and Technology (20/05/2021)

Berlin Partner is the first stop for companies in Berlin seeking tailored support in selecting this city as their new location, as well as during the starting-up phase. Berlin Partner supports companies, investors and scientific institutions providing customised services and an excellent science and research network.

Services offered by the Latin America IP SME Helpdesk (20/05/2021)

Do you have a business idea? Would you like to protect your artistic creations? Check out this story about Paul, a furniture designer, and see how you can benefit from his experience with the Latin America IP SME Helpdesk.

Happy World IP Day 2021! (23/04/2021)

This week we will be celebrating the World IP Day. This is an ideal opportunity to show the benefits and the real impact of intellectual property in our daily lives! We couldn't agree more with this year's topic: "IP & SMEs: Taking your ideas to the market". The Latin America IP Helpdesk is participating in two webinars (delivered in Spanish). We also invite you to explore the events calendar provided by WIPO, where you will find a wide range of events organised by other stakeholders committed to raising awareness regarding the importance of IP.

La propiedad intelectual y las empresas de base tecnológica (27/04/2021)

Este webinar, centrado en la experiencia de empresas e instituciones operando en Latinoamérica, ofrece un recorrido sobre cómo y cuándo proteger los activos tecnológicos y sobre como transformar a la PI en un valor.

Propiedad intelectual: estrategias para afrontar el mercado de América Latina (27/04/2021)

Este webinar, organizado por Cámara Valencia e IVACE, trata de sensibilizar a las empresas a proteger sus innovaciones y desarrollos, centrándose en las estrategias y recomendaciones para los intercambios comerciales con Latinoamérica.

Intellectual Property Enforcement in Uruguay (23/04/2021)

An IP right gives its holder a wide range of rights to prevent third parties from taking advantage of the use or commercialisation of the underlying intellectual asset (brand, invention, etc.). This factsheet aims to provide an overview of the legal framework in Uruguay regarding IPR enforcement, focusing on the law applicable to each case and the kind of injunctions and remedies that can be applied for, as well as some practical advice.

IP in the agri-food sector: geographical indications (23/04/2021)

The agri-food sector, which covers the production, processing, packing and distribution of food and drink products, has been experiencing a strong growth in Latin America with a positive impact on its competitiveness for more than a decade. Currently, the sector has a positive dynamism and enjoys a privileged position for further development due to this region’s growing population, natural resources, biodiversity and the huge potential of new arable land (especially in Brazil and Argentina).

EU and IMPI Mexico report on the influence of IP on the Mexican economy (25/03/2021)

The European Union, through the IP Key Latin America project, and in collaboration with the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI), have presented the study "The economic contribution of intellectual property in Mexico". This report quantifies, for the first time, the economic contribution in the country of the industries that protect trade marks, patents, designs, appellations of origin, among other sources of industrial property.

Launch of the New, Joint IP Helpdesk Website (25/03/2021)

The new, revamped website of the IP Helpdesk has come to life. The launch of this website is a key building block in the European Commission’s strategy to establish a strong IP Helpdesk brand and create an information hub that can help SMEs navigate the individual IP Helpdesk services of the five regions. We invite you to make use of the Helpline services available for each region, keep up to date on the latest IP news from the various regions, and browse the calendar of online IP training opportunities and events offered by the IP Helpdesk team.

How to maximize your creations with Intellectual Property in Latin America: benefits for Czech businesses in the cleantech sector (30/03/2021)

Renewable energies have become very valuable in Latin America countries, especially non-conventional energy sources at a short, medium and long term. In fact, Brazil, Mexico or Colombia are the main destinations to which EU SMEs wish to internationalise. The Latin America IP SME Helpdesk, together with the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade will host a webinar for EU SMEs interested in doing business or enter R&DT collaborative relationships in Latin America with a special attention to the Cleantech sector.

New Addition to the Helpdesk Family: Launch of the India IP SME Helpdesk (11/03/2021)

The European Commission has recently launched another IP SME Helpdesk service: The India IP SME Helpdesk provides small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with free, first-line expert support on how to protect and enforce their intellectual property (IP) in India. The new initiative complements the existing services provided by the regional Helpdesks for China, Europe, Latin America and South-East Asia. Welcome to the family!

New promotional video for the International IP SME Helpdesk (25/03/2021)

We have just updated our promotional video, featuring main services provided by the International IP Helpdesk. This video is available in our YouTube channel, which also offers a wide range of audiovisual resources on how to manage and exploit your intellectual property rights in Latin American countries.

EU Industry Days 2021 (25/02/2021)

This year's virtual #EUIndustryDays, which will take place from the 23rd to the 26th of February 2021, are approaching fast! The teams from all IP Helpdesks (European IP Helpdesk, China IP SME Helpdesk, Latin America IP SME Helpdesk, India IP SME Helpdesk and South East Asia IP SME Helpdesk) are joining forces to host an interactive "meet-the-expert" session on this Thursday, 25th of February 2021, to present their services. Plus, a talk between the different IP experts and Helpline advisors will provide you with a lively overview of how we can support you in your daily business, spotlighting

The European Green Deal: Are we ready? Main IP challenges for the Green Deal? (01/03/2021)

Under the new European Green Deal, the development of climate-neutral and circular products should be fostered in the EU but also globally. Moreover, having a comprehensive Intellectual Property (IP) strategy in place should be a priority for any EU SME willing to offer green technologies and sustainable solutions — be it in South-East Asia, China, India, Latin America or Europe.

Global Europe Roadshow Bulgaria (09/03/2021)

The Global Europe webinar brings key projects funded by the European Commission that support your European business directly to your home office! Join this online session and discover how you can seize international opportunities for your organisation or EU business! During this webinar you will learn how to access EU-funded, effective, free, and professional services that will kickstart your internationalisation to key markets in Latin America, China, India, Turkey, and Eastern European countries.

International Machinery Forum: The Factory of Tomorrow (11/03/2021)

The Latin America IP SME Helpdesk goes to the International Machinery Forum 2021! This forum brings together representatives from different companies, research centres, universities, etc., as well as our trade commissioners, which will be given advice on market development and access to foreign markets. If you want to go international, make sure to book a meeting with us to learn about how to succeed in your internationalisation strategy taking the right steps to protect your intellectual property rights!

Intellectual Property in Latin America in the cleantech sector: a look on how to identify your IP and exploit your creations (16/03/2021)

Renewable energies have experienced a relevant increase within the last two decades and Latin American countries are placing great expectations in non-conventional energy sources at a short, medium and long term. Join this webinar if you want to learn more about the main IPRs needed to succeed in the CleanTech sector, the advantages and possibilities coming from a right management of your IP rights in Chile, Mexico, Peru, Colombia and Argentina, as well as the benefits of the European innovation and business network in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Managing your IP in the Medical Device Sector (22/02/2021)

In order to succeed in this challenging, highly competitive industry, innovation and creativity are essential. The medical device field is an IPR-intensive industry, with an above-average use of IPRs per employee compared to other industries that use IPRs. This infographic offers you an overview of the most commonly used IP rights in the sector, as well as some basic information to bear in mind before commercialising your products in Latin American countries.

Best practices when negotiating technology transfer in Latin America (22/02/2021)

When a business is scaled at an international level, the introduction of products or services into a new market may involve the need of protection and commercialisation of intellectual property rights (IPRs) and know-how in the new territory, which entails specific challenges. This infographic explains the most common ways of exploiting your IPRs and some practical tips to take into account when negotiating your IPRs in Latin America.

Industrial designs in Uruguay (22/02/2021)

Did you know that it is possible to protect the external appearance of your product or package? Are you aware of the main specificities of industrial design registrations in Uruguay? This factsheet provides information about industrial design protection in Uruguay and IP management strategies for your company.

Digital and electronic signatures in Argentina: legal effects and importance when executing contracts online (21/01/2021)

If you are currently running an online business in Argentina or planning to sign a contract with an Argentine party online, or even if you have a Blockchain certification that proves the ownership of an IP right (e.g., copyright) that you need to enforce in Argentina, it is very important to be aware of the differences between the electronic signatures recognised in this country and their legal effects.

Intellectual Property in Latin America: how to exploit your creations (16/02/2021)

The Latin America IP SME Helpdesk, together with the Dublin Chamber, will host a webinar for EU SMEs interested in doing business or enter R&D collaborative relationships in Latin America. Join us if you want to learn more about the advantages and possibilities that come with an accurate management of your IP rights and how profitable this strategy can be.

10 basic IP tips to succeed abroad (28/01/2021)

Where should I register to be fully protected? Do I need to appoint a local representative to register in a foreign country? How can I detect IP Rights that might hinder my internationalisation strategy? These are some of the most frequently asked IP questions by EU SMEs that are struggling to correctly plan to go abroad. In this webinar our IP experts will show you the 10 basic IP tips to succeed abroad, focused on China, Latin America, India and South-East Asia.

Health Tech Hub Styria 2021 (28/01/2021)

The healthcare sector is a hub of innovation when it comes to intellectual property rights, so make sure you keep this in mind before you dive into it with the help of the Latin America IP SME Helpdesk! The Health Tech Hub Styria (HTH Styria) is an initiative sponsored by 6 leading stakeholders in the Styrian innovation system. It offers a concise but action-packed virtual event with fascinating topics such as international keynotes, a corporate call, pitching sessions, pre-arranged B2B meetings and much more.

New Handbook on Geographical Indications in Brazil (21/01/2021)

The National Institute of Industrial Property in Brazil (INPI) has published the first edition of their "Manual de Indicações Geográficas" (Geographical Indications Handbook). The "Manual" will come into force on 1 February 2021. This new handbook contains guidelines and recommendations for users and examiners of the INPI concerning the procedures and examination guidelines, as well as other relevant technical definitions.

Can my design be denied in the countries of the Andean Community because of technical features? (21/01/2021)

As with other creations, designs are protected by intellectual property. In this sense, new and singular designs may get exclusive market protection for a limited period of time. In fact, the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights, with 164 Member States (including countries of the EU and Latin America) compels its Members to confer protection to new or original designs for no less than 10 years. So, if you build the market strategy of your company on the introduction of products with new designs, make sure that your designs are provided with market exclusivity.