Intellectual Property Requirements in Free Trade Agreements: Implications for Development in Pacific Island Countries

Pacific Island countries are currently negotiating Free Trade Agreements with Australia and the European Union. The agreements will require the introduction and enforcement of western-style intellectual property regimes, about which very little is currently known in the region. The aim of this project is to conduct empirical research to discover the potential effects of these laws on sustainable development and the existing customary systems of protection of indigenous knowledge. Research outputs include a book and a policy paper containing recommendations to help the region obtain the benefits of intellectual property laws, whilst avoiding or minimizing any potentially negative outcomes.