Newsletter ABPI - Edition 51 - October 2023
When the Brazilian Intellectual Property Association (ABPI) lands in Recife in August of next year for its annual congress, the largest of its kind in Latin America, it once again lives up to the ‘B’ in its acronym. The diffusion of Intellectual Property culture in Brazil, the Association’s statutory mission, has already expanded in recent years, with an increase in the number of regional chapters: in just two years, the number of states where the Association is represented has grown from eight to fifteen. These regional chapters, among other activities, host events on the matter of Intellectual Property in their respective regions. By bringing its congress to the Brazilian Northeast, ABPI solidifies its status as a national association for Intellectual Property even further.
The choice of Recife for the congress, breaking away from the cycle once restricted to the Rio-São Paulo axis in recent years, is not only an expansionist decision but also a return to a tradition dating back to the ABPI’s founding 60 years ago. In fact, during the 1980s, the organization had already held its seminars in several Brazilian cities, including Salvador, Brasília, Curitiba, Blumenau, Vitória, Olinda, and yes, Recife. “Extending ABPI’s reach to the Northeast is an opportunity for both Brazilians and foreigners to get to know a beautiful region, rich in Intellectual Property, both in terms of technological innovation environments and artistic and cultural heritage,” explains Ticiano Gadelha, the ABPI’s regional representative in Pernambuco.
In addition to its historical and cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and landscapes, Recife genuinely holds high importance as Brazil’s innovation hub. The capital of Pernambuco is home to Porto Digital, one of the most important technology hubs in Latin America, with over 350 companies contributing to a total revenue of R$ 4.5 billion and 17,000 professionals involved in cutting-edge technology. It’s no coincidence that, according to the Rest of World portal, Recife is among the six cities worldwide leading the way in shaping the future of the IT industry.
Having recently concluded its 2023 congress, ABPI is already immersed in preparations for the 44th International Congress on Intellectual Property, which will be held from August 11 to 13, 2024, in a hybrid format. “Hosting the event in the Northeast provides those interested in this region with more access and knowledge in a field that has the potential to drive growth and reduce inequality in our country,” says Gustavo Henrique de Escobar, a member of ABPI’s Council. “If we want to see the number of patents, industrial designs, trademarks, software, etc., grow, we must broaden our horizons and reach new markets.”
Our website with preliminary information on the 44th Congress is now live, allowing everyone to embark on this journey with us immediately.