3: Intellectual Property
Improve Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement Domestically and Abroad Other Information:
INTRODUCTION The USPTO is an important component in the Administration’s strategy to encourage American innovation and strengthen
the nation’s ability to compete in the global economy. America’s economic strength and global leadership depend on continued
innovation and the ability to protect investments in those innovations. To keep competitive in an increasingly globalized
business environment, U.S. businesses need as much certainty as possible in the creation and protection of their IP, both
here and abroad. Losses due to counterfeiting and piracy seriously undermine U.S. businesses’ ability to trade globally. Additionally,
the costs and difficulties in obtaining IP protection globally, and preserving and enforcing these rights, is an impediment
for many businesses. The Strategy Targeting Organized Piracy (STOP!), led by the White House, is the most comprehensive initiative
ever advanced to fight global piracy where it starts, block bogus goods at America’s borders and help American businesses
secure and enforce their rights around the world. The USPTO supports this program through GIPA, training and capacity building
in various regions of the world, and staffing the STOP! hotline. CHALLENGES/OPPORTUNITIES ● There is a lack of simplified
and harmonized international IP systems, which is making it difficult, slow, and expensive for innovators and businesses to
obtain protection in global markets. ● Striking a balance between the rights of IP holders and cultural and socio-economic
concerns continues to be a challenge for all countries. ● Achieving consensus among countries advocating effective IP protection
is critical for counteracting countries concerned about efforts to enhance IP standards. ● We must continue to address counterfeiting,
piracy, and failure to respect IP rights here and abroad. ● The Office must continue to craft and deliver an effective educational
program about the benefits and effective use of IP, scam awareness, and careers in IP fields; and expand access to IP information.
● The USPTO must provide leadership by assisting the Solicitor General of the United States in cases before the Supreme Court,
particularly as the Court considers the obviousness standard in patent law. OUR STRATEGIC RESPONSE We will advocate U.S. Government
IP policy by increasing our presence and activities domestically and internationally; partner with international counterparts
in pursuit of harmonization; and increase the certainty and effectiveness of IP rights through developments in decisional
law. PERFORMANCE MEASURES Number of instances in which USPTO experts review IP policies/standards Improving worldwide IP expertise
for U.S. Government interests Plans of action, mechanisms, and support programs initiated or implemented in developing countries
Objective(s):
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