Intellectual Property, Innovation and Management in Emerging Economies

Book excerpt: This book argues that intellectual property (IP) management development and innovation are fundamental to economic development , especially in newly emerging economies which often hold vast reserves of natural resources and human knowledge that remain unprotected. It sheds light on countries that are gradually realising this situation, with examples from many parts of the world, including Eastern Europe, Africa and especially Asia including India, where a great deal is being made of innovation and intellectual property to stimulate economic growth. These case studies are seen within the theoretical context of the future of cross-border IP which is slowly becoming a reality. Specific examples go beyond the patent prosecution highway, to which China has also recently signed up, and India’s development of generic drugs at lower costs. Experts in the field including practising IP lawyers explain and criticise current and new models being tested in emerging economies concerning IPR. Original case studies of hitherto little understood breaches of African trademarks by the US and Japan, and patenting mistakes in relation to little known Indian forest plants all damage emerging economies and their native people's lives. While proper implementation of IP laws by emerging economies themselves can lead to positive outcomes for all involved, the key is an independent judiciary coupled by thoughtful and thoroughly understood implementation of IP laws within the context of cross border IP. The book shows through models how different emerging economies are at various levels of developing their IPR and what paths they are taking to do this. Finally, it provides a comprehensive assessment of the ways in which innovation, protection and enforcement of IP laws can help newly emerging economies achieve economic growth without destroying natural and human resources, while moving ahead from the current global financial crisis.