The third working group meeting of DCFTA on Assessment of the Mechanisms of IP Rights Enforcement of in Georgia took place on 16th of December. The topic is highly sensitive and widely discussed in Georgia. IPR is one of the fundamental and basic values in the EU.

Internal expert Mr. Giorgi Taktakishvili presented his recommendations on the following issues: Obligations of Georgia; Fulfillment of Obligations; Problem Solutions.

Generally, the third meeting was the most interactive, informative and beneficial for all stake holders, especially for the state representatives.

Co-chairs of the meeting were Mrs.Mariam Gabunia (The Head of Department for Foreign Trade and International Economic Relations, Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development) and Mr. Mikheil Skhiereli ( Country Program Manager, Good Governance Fund at Policy and Management Consulting Group LLC).

Bellow you can find the main features and findings of the meeting.

The MAIN FEATURES AND FINDINGS

• Revealing the current state and observations on IPR enforcement in Georgia;
• Analyzing scale of counterfeit market and related risks;
• Focus is needed on Trademarks, as it the most challenging issue;
• What are the most effective ways to protect IP rights;
• Distinction between criminal and civil measures of IP rights protection;
• No Administrative Prosecution - Negative Impacts;
• No Administrative Prosecution and Georgia’s International Obligation – Association Agreement with EU;
• Solution and Recommendations offered by the speaker;