Dominican Republic celebrates removal from U.S. Intellectual Property watch list

Santo Domingo.- For the first time in nearly three decades, the Dominican Republic finds itself absent from the United States 301 Report on Intellectual Property, marking a significant milestone. The decision, as outlined in the report by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), reflects the country’s commendable progress in addressing concerns related to compliance and transparency in intellectual property matters.

Efforts to combat illegal activities such as signal piracy and copyright infringement, alongside the reinforcement of governmental institutions, have been spearheaded through the Interministerial Council on Intellectual Property (CIPI). This collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM) and the Attorney General’s Office aims to synchronize public policies in this crucial domain.

The exclusion of the Dominican Republic from the watch list stands as a testament to these concerted endeavors, marking a significant achievement after three decades. President Luis Abinader’s administration, under which these strides were made, rightfully celebrates this accomplishment.

Minister Víctor Bisonó of MICM expressed satisfaction with the USTR’s decision, affirming the ministry’s relentless commitment to crafting and executing public policies that safeguard intellectual property. This recognition underscores the pivotal role of preserving intellectual rights in fostering knowledge, innovation, and the overall economic and social progress of the Dominican Republic.