Basics of International Intellectual Property Law

This basic guide to intellectual property law, from the point of view of international commerce, clearly demarcates the ground on which any contract involving intellectual property must be based. It describes and analyses the legally valid guidelines by which any commercial entity may: facilitate the sale of a protected product in foreign markets; prevent the use of protected property by competitors at home and abroad; and forestall the manufacture abroad of identical or misleadingly similar items. The author considers both the variety of national requirements and the international intellectual property regime that is now in place under the WTO/GATT, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and multilateral treaties. In connection with both technology and proprietary information, emphasis is on the need to determine, on a country-by-country basis: which ‘ideas’ are subject to intellectual property protection; which ‘persons’ can seek and obtain intellectual property protection; which special use permits may apply; and which technical requirements must be met. This is a fundamental resource for any business person or counsel considering entry into foreign markets. The information and guidance it provides is easy to understand and use, and will help any cross-border business venture to proceed smoothly and successfully.