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Sustained growth in the protection of intangible assets
By Guzmán Ariza, Attorneys at Law
From July 2022 to July 2023, the Dominican Republic registered 56,382 trade names and 10,781 trademarks. According to the the National Office of Industrial Property (ONAPI), the data reflects a sustained growth in the protection of intangible assets in the country.
ONAPI presented the information in a yearly report that resumed some of the services provided by the Office.
Among green patents, a sector were the country IP system has been focused on, the Office received 151 invention patents and 27 industrial designs applications. The green patent program looks to provide local solutions to global challenges, such as climate change, public health and food security. State institutions, universities, companies and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are working together in facilitating more green technology exchanges with the ultimate goal of increasing investment and deployment of environmentally friendly solutions.
During the presentation of the report it was announced the opening of a specialized training program in IP in collaboration with the National Academy of Intellectual Property (ANPI). The new training program, which will be free and open to the general public, aims to provide the necessary skills to understand the importance of protecting IP rights.
The Dominican Republic has been already working together with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISCs) designed to provide innovators with access to locally based, high quality technology information services and other related services.
Such centers facilitate access to patent databases and other scientific and technology resources; trains local users through on-site and distance learning and disseminate best practices and experiences.
The Dominican Republic's increase in intellectual property registrations, focus on green patents, collaborative innovation initiatives, and commitment to IP education reflect a proactive approach to fostering innovation and protecting intangible assets within the country. These efforts are not only vital for the nation's economic development but also contribute to addressing global challenges related to sustainability and innovation.
Guzmán Ariza, Attorneys at Law
Guzmán Ariza is a leading full-service law firm in the Dominican Republic, consistently ranked among the country’s top-tier firms by the most prominent global legal directories such as Chambers and Partners and The Legal 500.
With ten strategically located offices across the nation's principal business and tourism hubs, we are uniquely positioned to support clients in seizing opportunities within the largest and fastest-growing economy in Central America and the Caribbean.
Our multilingual team is well-versed in advising international clients across a broad spectrum of practice areas. In the field of intellectual property, we offer robust counsel and representation in both commercial transactions and litigation. Our services cover trademark and trade name protection, copyright and patent registration and enforcement, as well as licensing, assignments, and the transfer of IP rights.
Guzmán Ariza is globally connected through active memberships in prominent international legal networks, enabling us to effectively support cross-border matters and multinational transactions.
