Book reveiw
Economics of Intellectual Property
Empirical economic research on intellectual property (IP) in developing countries and countries in transition is limited, making it difficult for policymakers to rely on such evidence when taking decisions on IP. his is the main conclusion of a recent WIPO publication entitled: “The Economics of Intellectual Property: Suggestions for Further Research in Developing Countries and Countries with Economies in Transition” (WIPO publication No. 1012).
The publication, which includes papers from renowned international economists, focuses on six selected themes: (1) Innovation and Appropriability Strategies; (2) Intellectual Property and International Technology Transfer; (3) The Economics of Copyright; (4) the Economics of Geographical Indications (5) Intellectual Property Rights and Pharmaceuticals; and (6) IP Rights and Knowledge Transfer from Universities and Public Research Organizations.
The papers provide an overview of the empirical literature on each theme, highlight the key gaps in the literature and provide some suggestions for future research. The first draft of the papers was discussed at the International Roundtable on the Economics of IP held at WIPO in November 2007. The publication includes revised versions of these papers as well as comments made at the Roundtable in order to provide a range of different views on ways in which the themes could be further studied in developing countries and countries in transition.
By Esteban Burrone, Development Agenda Coordination Division, WIPO
Related Links
The WIPO Magazine is intended to help broaden public understanding of intellectual property and of WIPO’s work, and is not an official document of WIPO. The designations employed and the presentation of material throughout this publication do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of WIPO concerning the legal status of any country, territory or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. This publication is not intended to reflect the views of the Member States or the WIPO Secretariat. The mention of specific companies or products of manufacturers does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by WIPO in preference to others of a similar nature that are not mentioned.