International Symposium on IP and TK/GRs

The International Symposium on Intellectual Property, and Traditional Knowledge and Genetic Resources, co-organized by the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) and WIPO, provided an opportunity for Member States and Observers to share regional, national and local practices, experiences and substantive issues regarding the intellectual property (IP) protection of traditional knowledge (TK) and genetic resources (GRs).

On November 28 and 29, 2022, the International Symposium opened with pre-recorded opening remarks from Mr. Lu Pengqi, Deputy Commissioner of the CNIPA.

As an international conference held within the framework of the Intergovernmental Committee on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Folklore, this meeting will explore in depth important issues such as the protection of TK and disclosure of GRs, provide support for the upcoming diplomatic conference, and expedite early consensus on related issues. It is not only a useful attempt to promote the protection and utilization of TK and GRs, but also a vigorous initiative to facilitate the building of the global IP ecosystem.

Mr. Lu Pengqi, Deputy Commissioner, CNIPA

Mr. Edward Kwakwa, Assistant Director General of the Global Challenges and Partnerships Sector, WIPO, highlighted the benefits of protecting TK systems in his opening remarks.

Traditional knowledge systems are valuable assets, which, to some degree, can already be protected by the existing IP system. IP protection of these assets is not an end in itself: it also contributes to indigenous, rural and local economic development, cultural heritage preservation, sustainable development and actions to combat climate change, among others. The interface between IP and genetic resources can also contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, rural development and innovation in the life sciences.

Mr. Edward Kwakwa, Assistant Director General, Global Challenges and Partnerships Sector, WIPO

In her opening remarks, Ms. Lilyclaire Bellamy, Chair of the Intergovernmental Committee on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Folklore (IGC) and Director of the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office, underscored the timely organization of this symposium.

The symposium […] is being held at a very important and critical juncture in the work of the IGC. […] The General Assembly of the World Intellectual Property Organization in July of this year made a decision that we should convene a Diplomatic Conference on Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge Associated with Genetic Resources. […] The discussion being held at this time is quite timely.”

Ms. Lilyclaire Bellamy, IGC Chair and Executive Director, Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO), Jamaica

On the first day of the International Symposium, speakers from the public and private sectors and indigenous communities shared their regional, national and community experiences with intellectual property as a tool to protect traditional knowledge and foster economic growth and sustainable development. The panel explored the possibilities for IP protection of TK and GRs to support entrepreneurial activities for the benefit of indigenous peoples and local communities.

On the second day, speakers discussed disclosure requirements related to GRs and associated TK. The possible patent disclosure requirements, which are currently being negotiated within the IGC, are also one of the key issues to be addressed by the international legal instrument that will be concluded during the 2024 Diplomatic Conference on GRs and associated TK.

• The recording of this International Symposium is available online.
• More information on WIPO’s activities in the fields of genetic resources and traditional knowledge as well as on the 2024 Diplomatic Conference.