An agreement to support the development of UK businesses working in Mexico has been struck this week to improve international relations and the sharing of industry best practice.

The new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is designed to support any businesses looking to operate in Mexico who need protect their intellectual property. The two countries will agree to lend support for businesses needing help with patents, copyright, trademarks and designs.

Minister for Intellectual Property Baroness Wilcox said: “This agreement will allow the UK and Mexico to share best practice in areas such as enforcing intellectual property rights and to address the issue of global patent application backlogs. It will also support SMEs looking to protect their rights in Mexico and the UK, giving them the best opportunity to grow their business and boost the economy.”

Clarifying the importance of the agreement for Britain’s ability to take advantage of opportunities in developing economies Baroness Wilcox said: “Mexico is an influential voice on issues of intellectual property in Latin America. The Government is building links with international partners to encourage the growth of innovative business across the globe.”

The agreement follows the UK Government’s acceptance of the recommendations made in the Hargreaves Review of Intellectual Property and Growth; a crucial point of the Government’s Growth Review set out in the 2011 Budget.

The review highlighted that the UK should continue to chase international interests in intellectual property. This MoU will provide support for businesses in the UK and help them to achieve their growth potential overseas, which in turn will benefit the UK economy.

Director general of IMPI, Dr. Rodrigo Roque said: “We are excited to start our cooperation links with the UK on intellectual property matters. The execution of this MoU underlines our strong commitment to contribute to intellectual property rights enforcement, not only at a national level but also in the international field, particularly with landmark offices such as UK IPO.”

This is the first IP agreement between the two countries and is part of the IPO's commitment to creating a network of understanding with countries across the world.

(Source: TheManufacturer.com)