Intellectual property registration – Competitive strategy for key products

Through the Intellectual Asset Development Support Program for the 2021–2030 period, Hai Phong has so far supported 18 key tasks, turning local signature products into intellectual assets protected by law.

At present, the city has 126 community brands granted protection certificates by the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam, including three geographical indications, five certification marks, and 118 collective marks.

According to Doan Thi Nhung, Vice Chairwoman of the People’s Committee of Vinh Thinh commune, brand certificates granted to farmers and cooperatives are not only sharp legal tools to protect the results of their labor but also launchpads that help enhance product value. From there, farmers and cooperatives gain access to demanding markets, contributing to local economic development.

According to the Department of Science and Technology, the number of applications for industrial property rights filed by organizations and individuals in the city increases by 10 – 15% annually, in which trademark registration accounts for the largest proportion, indicating businesses’ greater focus on building and protecting their brands.

Patent and utility solution applications also grow, concentrating on high technology, mechanical engineering, and automation, reflecting the city’s industrial development orientation.

Over the past time, the Department of Science and Technology has proactively carried out various activities to support businesses, from nurturing ideas, looking for information, and identifying intellectual assets to successfully securing protection. Foundational knowledge seminars, intensive training sessions, and direct consultations are regularly organized, not only for businesses but also for cooperatives, research institutes, and universities.

Notably, the city has put into operation the Intellectual Property Information Search Station (IP Platform), an effective tool that allows individuals, businesses, and organizations to easily look up intellectual property information.

Nguyen Cao Thang, Vice Director of the Department of Science and Technology, said that as science, technology, and the digital economy continue to advance, registering and managing intellectual property rights for brands and trademarks is truly a legal tool that protects business interests. It is also a core intangible asset that forms the competitive value and credibility of individuals, organizations, and businesses in the market. Developing intellectual assets and proactively registering for protection in international markets has become a mandatory requirement, a strategic mission for Hai Phong products to compete fairly and sustainably on the global stage.

Pham Van Hat, Director of Hat Invent Co., Ltd., said businesses need to view intellectual property as a long-term investment and incorporate intellectual property protection costs into the essential cost structure of export activities, similar to logistics or marketing expenses.

At the same time, the city should study and issue policies to support part of the cost for businesses and cooperatives when registering for intellectual property protection for key products and potential export products, Hat suggested.

According to Nguyen Cao Thang, Vice Director of the Department of Science and Technology, in the coming period, the department will further strengthen communication efforts so that all businesses, especially small- and medium-sized ones and cooperatives, can access intellectual property consulting services. Support may include one-on-one advisory sessions and direct connections between businesses and leading lawyers and experts for specific markets.

In addition, the city will enhance the “four-party link” in international protection, including the State, farmers, scientists and businesses, creating mechanisms, policies, and a favorable legal corridor for international intellectual property registration.

NGUYEN THAO

NGUYEN THAO