Russia became a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in December 2011 after 18 years of negotiations.
WTO director general Pascal Lamy hailed Russia’s membership as a “win-win deal” for both Russia and its present and future trading partners. Commentators predict big things for the country’s economy as WTO accession comes into effect and trade barriers are removed.
Russia is an attractive market for many foreign companies. Big companies are increasing their patent filings, and brands are not far behind. With WTO accession, these companies are expected to increase their presences in Russia, particularly when they can obtain effective protection for their inventions and brands.
The country’s intellectual property (IP) legislation is harmonised with international norms to a high degree. Russia is a signatory to the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), while its trademark legislation, which was modernised in 2008, is compliant with the Trade-Related Aspects of IP (TRIPS) and Singapore agreements.
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Russia, WTO, member, IP enforcement, patent, trademark, protection
