The IP Negotiations Monitor summarizes the latest developments in multilateral and regional fora where intellectual property negotiations are taking place, and informs on upcoming meetings and events.
(Covering period: September 2013 – January 2014) (more…)
The Information Technology Agreement (ITA); Considerations from a Development Perspective
This note discusses the contents of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA), including the scheduling approach under the ITA, the experiences of ITA members thus far, and the propositions for expansion of the ITA product coverage. (more…)
The IP Negotiations Monitor summarizes the latest developments in multilateral and regional fora where intellectual property negotiations are taking place, and informs on upcoming meetings and events.
(Covering period: April – August 2013) (more…)
The man who saved millions with cheap medicines
By Martin Khor
His rivals called him a “pirate” but grateful millions whose lives were saved by his cheap generic medicines consider him a Robin Hood—Yusuf Hamied, leader of India’s giant company, Cipla.
The IP Negotiations Monitor summarizes the latest developments in multilateral and regional fora where intellectual property negotiations are taking place, and informs on upcoming meetings and events.
(Covering period January – March 2013) (more…)
Reflections on the IP System: A Development Perspective
By Carlos M. Correa
The South Centre held a side event during the 50th WIPO General Assemblies on the theme of “Reflections on the IP System: A Development Perspective” on 5 October 2012 at the WIPO headquarters in Geneva. Professor Carlos Correa, Special Advisor on Trade and Intellectual Property of the Centre, was the speaker of the event. Below is a summary of his presentation.
Access to Medicines and Intellectual Property: The contribution of the World Health Organization
The topic of intellectual property first appeared in the WHO in 1996 and coincided with the end of the Uruguay Round and the creation of the World Trade Organization. In 1995 the Charles III University of Madrid with the WHO Drugs Action Programme (DAP) organized a conference where Professor Carlos Correa presented a paper entitled “The Uruguay Round and Drugs”. (more…)
The Use of Compulsory Licenses in Latin America
By Carlos M. Correa
This article examines the situation in Latin American countries with respect to their laws and policies relating to compulsory licenses—and how Brazil and Ecuador have made use of such compulsory licenses for drugs.
India prepares to supply free generic medicines
By Zofeen Ebrahim
As the northern Indian state of Rajasthan rolls out an ambitious universal healthcare plan, the discontent of the state’s doctors stands in stark contrast to the joys of the 68 million people who will benefit from the scheme.
Asian countries act to get cheap drugs
By Martin Khor
Staring with Malaysia in 2003, many Asian countries are now taking actions to promote cheaper medicines through compulsory licensing, with Indonesia being the latest case.
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India to increase supply of free generic medicines: some key issues
By Nirmalya Syam
Recent reports indicate that the Indian government plans to increase manifold its spending on procurement of generic medicines for supply free to patients. This is welcome news. However, it is important to ensure future supply of generic medicines by addressing the present problems facing the Indian drug industry.
Beyond ‘Patent Quality’: Basic Concepts of the Patent System Need To Be Reviewed
By Carlos M. Correa
A proposal has been made to initiate a debate on ‘patent quality’ at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The expression ‘patent quality’ ambiguously alludes to a growing problem, faced in both developed and developing countries alike: the overwhelming majority of patents are applied for and granted over incremental developments on existing technologies. Although the patent system is supposed to reward inventiveness, in many cases patents cover minor improvements or trivial ideas.
