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How intellectual property helps ASEAN make its mark
ASEAN members are taking various measures to develop its IP regimes and infrastructure, both individually and in mutual cooperation with other countries.
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Lamphun brocade silk (Shutterstock/File)
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uicy Guimaras mangoes, aromatic kampot pepper and elaborate Lamphun brocade silk are shining examples of this region’s natural and cultural riches — and their worldwide recognition also demonstrates how ASEAN countries can gain from protecting intellectual property rights.
With the establishment of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) in late 2015, the nations in Southeast Asia have redoubled efforts in forging greater economic cooperation, guided by the AEC Blueprint 2025. One area of priority is intellectual property or IP as guided by the ASEAN IPR Action Plan 2016-2025.
Intellectual property rights are central to one of the AEC Blueprint’s chief goals of building a “competitive, innovative and dynamic ASEAN”. As the Blueprint notes, protecting IP rights is critical for the economic development of ASEAN states: in moving up the technology ladder, encouraging technology transfer and stimulating creativity.
By assuring businesses, entrepreneurs and creators that their ideas and works will be protected, a strong IP regime creates an ideal environment for innovation to flourish, and attract foreign direct investment.
