IP licensing in Brazil: what you need to know

01-06-2011

Alysson H. Oikawa

Licensing has many advantages as a means of entering the market in Brazil, but companies should make sure they are familiar with all the appropriate restrictions and regulations. Alysson Oikawa explains.

Despite the implications of the recent international economic breakdown, Brazil remains one of the leading developing markets to attract foreign capital. It is frequently referred to as a country that has the capacity to expand the internal market for goods and services, while exerting a dominant position as a global supplier of raw materials.

With the upcoming 2014 FIFA World Cup and 2016 Olympic Games, this fast-growing economy is expected to be boosted by ever-greater investment. In this positive outlook, licensing becomes an attractive alternative to enter local production chains and reach Brazilian consumers.

Licensing generally refers to the agreements under which the owner of an IP right grants authorisation to use without an effective transfer of ownership. It provides many financial benefits for the foreign owner, since a large proportion of investment in production and distribution is sustained by the local licensee. A licensor may grant a licence in Brazil to practically any intangible asset, including patents, industrial designs, trademarks, plant varieties and copyrights.


Brazil, IP licensing

WIPR