Over 50% of Bulgaria’s GDP is created by industries that actively use intellectual property
The development of new technologies and their integration into the economy was reviewed at a meeting between the Minister of Economy and Industry Petar Dilov and the delegation of the European Patent Office (EPO), which is visiting our country, led by the EPO President António Campinos.
Key topics related to the sustainability of the patent system, the promotion of the small and medium-sized enterprises, the significance of the universities and the individual applicants, the support of the intellectual property, as well as future opportunities for bilateral cooperation were discussed during the meeting.
“Small and medium-sized enterprises, universities and individual applicants are a priority not only for the European Patent Office, but also for Bulgaria,” emphasized Minister Dilov. He expressed confidence that the partnership between the Republic of Bulgaria and the EPO will continue to develop, focusing on new promising sectors and forms of interaction
Dilov stressed that the Ministry remains committed to actively supporting business and creating favorable conditions for the development of the country’s innovation potential, as well as reducing bureaucratic barriers that can hinder the implementation of new ideas. “The exchange of experience with the European Patent Office is extremely valuable for us in order to apply the best practices in Europe here. I hope that together we will implement many common projects,” he added.
For his part, António Campinos emphasized that Bulgaria is an important participant considering the Unitary Patent, which is strongly supported by the small and medium-sized enterprises, research centers and universities. “The Unitary Patent is a very important tool for small and medium-sized enterprises, with smaller entities particularly benefiting from and very actively using the system”, he shared.
During the meeting, it became clear that “more than 50% of Bulgaria’s GDP is created by industries that actively use intellectual property, including patents, trademarks and geographical indications”.
“Industries that make intensive use of intellectual property, such as patents, generate higher GDP and create higher-paying jobs,” Campinos emphasized.
Mr. Campinos expressed gratitude to the Republic of Bulgaria for the efforts to retain its patent experts in support of the universities, research centers and small companies that need support taking into account the new technologies and innovations. “The Bulgarian Patent Office is one of the most active in Europe and it is important for us to thank Bulgaria for its role as an important member of our organisation,” Campinos said.
The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Nevena Lazarova and the President of the Patent Office of the Republic of Bulgaria, Eng. Olya Dimitrova.