432. From the outset, allow me to thank the proponents for the initiative and the documents.
433. Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) play a major role in social and economic policies of countries. Brazil, alongside different Member States, is working on areas in which the WTO could develop measures in favor of MSMES, as provided, among others, in document JOB/GC/127.
434. Experts point the following barriers to MSMEs interested in engaging on international trade: lack of knowledge regarding legislation from other countries, burdensome requirements and procedures, as well as the necessity of enhancing market intelligence.
435. We are open to examining actions to increase participation of MSMEs in international trade. One potential way is the development of information platforms targeting MSMEs. Such bases should contain information that assists MSMEs in their internationalization efforts, for the mutual benefit of trading partners by generating growth and reducing transaction costs.
436. In the last session of the Council, we provided information about initiatives undertaken by the Brazilian Government to assist MSMEs. Please refer to the report of that session for additional information.
437. Brazil favors that intellectual property works as a stimulus to innovation, rather than a barrier to access to technology. This includes deepening the understanding of features of the intellectual property system related to the achievement of the objective set in Article 7 of the TRIPS Agreement.
438. I would also add the importance that IP offices issue patents of high quality that enhance legal certainty. Patents of low quality can represent an additional barrier to entrepreneurs, something that particularly affects MSMEs.
