Blog
Analysis and commentary on intellectual property developments relevant to cross-border business across Europe, Latin America and Africa. We publish on the matters that affect how intangible assets are protected, exploited and defended — from EUIPO and WIPO practice to the implementation of the EU AI Act and the evolution of intellectual property regimes across Latin American and African jurisdictions.
AI-assisted inventions after DABUS: naming inventors at the EPO
The EPO accepts AI-assisted inventions, but only a natural person can be designated, and T 528/25 shows a contradictory designation sinks the application.
Cross-border IP due diligence: a checklist for Europe, LatAm and Africa
A phase-by-phase checklist for IP due diligence in deals across Europe, Latin America and Africa, and why unrecorded assignments and licences can undermine value.
Ghana–USPTO Accelerated Patent Grant: fast-track patent routes in Africa
Ghana and the USPTO signed an Accelerated Patent Grant statement on 9 July 2026. How it works and how it compares with ARIPO, Global PPH, OAPI…
Choosing IP correspondents in Latin America and Africa: criteria and control
Brazil, OAPI and many offices require local agents. How to choose IP correspondents in Latin America and Africa, compare their costs and keep control of quality.
Cross-border IP strategy US–LatAm: where Madrid, Hague and PCT stop working
PCT, Madrid and Hague leave gaps in Latin America: Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Venezuela are outside the PCT and Madrid covers four markets. A country-by-country roadmap.
Global patent portfolio management: deadlines, annuities and local agents
How to run PCT, European, unitary and national patent deadlines and annuities from one calendar across Europe, Latin America and Africa without losing rights.
USMCA joint review: the US declines renewal. What it means for IP in Mexico
The US did not renew the USMCA on 1 July 2026; the agreement stays in force with annual reviews. What it means for trade marks, patents…
EU–Indonesia CEPA goes to the Council: 221 EU GIs and a full IP chapter
The Commission sent the EU–Indonesia CEPA to the Council on 29 June 2026. What its IP chapter means: 221 EU GIs, bad-faith marks, customs measures and…
PCT statistics 2026: 275,900 applications and Latin America’s thin share
WIPO's PCT Yearly Review 2026: 275,900 applications in 2025, with Africa, Latin America and Oceania at 1.4%. Why that gap is an opportunity for Latin American…
European patent validation in Angola: what the EPO agreement means
Angola signed a validation agreement with the EPO on 23 June 2026 and Moldova joined the EPC. What it means for filings in Lusophone Africa and…
