632. We thank the "Friends of IP and Innovation" for this next round of discussions on IP and MSMEs. Today's discussion link two priority areas for Brazil: MSMEs and sustainability. For most MSMEs, delving into the IP world is still a challenge. In Brazil, studies have revealed that intellectual property in general, including trademarks, are still little considered in the business strategies of a large number of MSMEs.
633. There are several entry barriers such as high costs and a limited knowledge of IP rights and their economic use. As discussed in our previous encounter, MSMEs benefit from various programmes that aim at enhancing their knowledge of the IP system and the use of IP as an important business asset. Acknowledging the importance of innovation in the green technology field, Brazil has developed and implemented specific policies with that focus.
634. Since 2012, we have a "fast track" for patent examination of green technologies called "Green Patents priority examination". Moreover, both MSMEs and green technologies benefit from fee reductions. Brazil's patent office is also a partner of WIPO Green and takes part in one of its acceleration projects alongside Chile and Argentina. In the first phase of the acceleration project, there was an effort to map needs and providers in the field of zero til technologies. The partnership continues, and a next phase of the acceleration project will explore other technological areas.
635. Brazil's National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) is also structuring its own matchmaking events, in cooperation with international partners, through its recently created programme "INPI for business". One first round of matchmaking was held in 2020, and a second round should take place in 2022 with several partners like Euroclima+, WIPO Green and other countries.
636. The Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service (SEBRAE) has also developed a programme that adds value to biodiversity through entrepreneurship. The first edition of this project is called "Inova Amazônia" and is intended to support new businesses, mostly small businesses, that innovate and explore the region's biodiversity in a sustainable way. These are some examples of a wide range of initiatives that were put in place, and we continue to explore further ways to offer support to MSMEs in the green technologies field.
