USAID Supports Training on Intellectual Property for Public and Private Sector Stakeholders in the Handicraft Sector

Vientiane, Lao PDR — The Department of Intellectual Property and the Department of Industry and Handicraft, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Laos Business Environment Project, convened a training on intellectual property for public and private sector stakeholders in the handicraft sector on April 19.

The training focused on providing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with resources to increase their knowledge about the different types of intellectual property (IP) rights, and incorporate IP in their business strategies.

The event was co-chaired by Mr. Santisouk Phounesavath, Director of the Intellectual Property Department, Ministry of Industry and Commerce and Mr. Michael Ronning, USAID Country Representative to Laos. More than 40 representatives from relevant government ministries, the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Vientiane SME Service Center and the Lao Handicraft Association, and handicraft businesses participated in the event.
During his opening remarks, Mr. Santisouk Phounesavath, Director of the Intellectual Property Department, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, expressed his appreciation for USAID’s ongoing support to help Laos improve its business environment. “The industry and handicrafts sector has been gradually developed in recent years. The number of start-ups or small and medium businesses in the industrial and handicraft sectors has been growing. However, not many businesses are aware of the benefits of intellectual property rights and the value-added to their businesses. Therefore, applying intellectual property is the key to improve the businesses and importantly help attract foreign investment and increase trade activities.” said Mr. Santisouk Phounesavath.
During the workshop, handicraft SMEs learned how intellectual property can protect their businesses and creative outputs and how to register their products and designs. In addition, a panel discussion with handicraft SMEs addressed the benefits and value of IP registration.

Mr. Michael Ronning reiterated the US Government’s commitment to supporting Lao PDR in improving its business environment and addressing the economic impacts of COVID-19. “Increasing IP awareness across handicraft SMEs and encouraging them to use Lao PDR’s existing IP system will help them increase their market competitiveness, stimulate innovation and expand trade,” said Mr. Ronning. He noted that Lao handicrafts provide a significant source of income for women and their families, particularly those in remote areas and it represents the unique culture and beautiful traditions of the people of Laos.

USAID, through the Laos Business Environment Project, assists the Government of Lao PDR to improve the climate for investment and trade and enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises. Previously, USAID supported the Government of Laos to amend the law on intellectual property and develop the intellectual property web portal, serving and protecting Lao businesses across the country.