Key objectives
- Facilitate trade in IP-intensive products: Promote effective cooperation and alignment in IP policies, especially for emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and the metaverse.
- Support SMEs: Help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) protect, manage, and commercialise their IP across borders.
- Strengthen IP protection and enforcement: Address differences in approaches to enforcement of IP rights (IPR), particularly in the digital environment.
Why it matters
IP rights are critical for innovation and economic growth. Given the strong trade relationship between the EU and Japan supported by the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), this Action aims to tackle challenges posed by new technologies and global trade dynamics. Enhanced cooperation will benefit businesses, consumers, and enforcement authorities in both economies.
Expected outputs
- Enhanced legal frameworks: Studies and research will explore how IP laws can adapt to emerging technologies like generative AI and virtual reality. Collaboration will focus on creating interoperable systems and digital solutions for IP protection.
- Support to businesses: Businesses, and in particular SMEs, which make up over 99% of businesses in both regions, will receive guidance on IP strategies, export planning, and overcoming market access barriers. Resources like webinars, workshops, and tailored information will be provided.
- Improved enforcement: Authorities will collaborate to combat counterfeiting and online piracy, leveraging technology to detect and remove infringing content. Platforms for sharing best practices and discussing enforcement strategies will be established.
Work packages
- Work Package 1: Cooperation on IP policies
Focus on aligning laws and practices for emerging technologies like AI and NFTs. Activities include studies, workshops, and technical exchanges involving policymakers and enforcement authorities. - Work Package 2: Support to businesses
Help businesses, in particular SMEs, understand and use IP systems effectively. Activities include webinars, seminars, and resources tailored to sectors trading between the EU and Japan. - Work Package 3: Enforcement
Strengthen collaboration between enforcement actors like IP offices, customs, police, administrative and judiciary bodies. Activities include meetings, technical exchanges and public awareness campaigns.
This initiative aims to build a robust framework for IP cooperation, ensuring businesses and authorities in the EU and Japan can navigate the evolving digital landscape effectively.