EMERGING MARKETS GIVEN MORE TIME TO ADOPT WTO INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RULES

THE WORLD’S 49 least developed countries have been given another eight years to implement the intellectual property protection rules demanded by the World Trade Organisation (WTO). This means that their governments have the freedom to choose whether to protect trademarks, patents, copyright, industrial designs, geographical indications and other rights, potentially harming pharma companies. However the move was welcomed by WTO director general Pascal Lamy, who said it was a sign the organisation can make compromises and “get things done.” The WTO least ...


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