Latin America Ip Sme Helpdesk Ip Factsheet PDF Download

Intellectual Property (IP) is a set of legal rules that regulate the exclusive rights related to innovative and creative activity and to commercial activity. IP is usually divided into two branches: Industrial Property, which relates to inventions, designs or signs used in commerce; and Copyright, which relates mainly to literary and artistic works. As exclusive rights, Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) confer a temporary monopoly to the right holders, granting them exclusivity on the use and exploitation of their intellectual creations and also the right to prevent any unauthorized use by third parties. Nowadays, IPR have become a key factor for innovative SMEs seeking to internationalise. IPR will provide market exclusivity, allow to recoup the investment made in R&D, facilitate licence and transfer agreements negotiations related to IPRs allowing them to access third parties technologies. SMEs that are interested and concerned about their intangible assets generally have the chance to find new investors, build a better enterprise image, access new markets and thus increase their value. The IPR system also enables rightholders in the artistic and cultural sphere (such as authors, performers, producers, broadcasters, etc) to improve their visibility and protect their moral and economic interests The following IP rights are further developed throughout this factsheet, focusing on Chilean features: Copyright, Patents, Industrial Designs, Trademarks, Geographical Indications and Appellations of Origin, and Plant Varieties.