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Businesses to benefit from IP attaché in Brazil

The Government have appointed a new IP attaché in Brazil, with the aim to enhance trade relations and support IP and innovation-led businesses abroad.

Sheila Alves will be based at the British Embassy in Brasilia, and will work with representatives from UKTI and the Foreign and Commonwealth office.

The announcement was made by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg at UKTI’s Brazil Business Day at Lancaster House.

Minister for Intellectual Property Baroness Wilcox said: “The UK has enjoyed a strong trading relationship with Brazil for over two centuries and investment in both directions has increased in recent years. Bilateral trade between our countries reached almost £9 billion in 2011.

“I very much welcome the appointment of Sheila Alves, to cover this crucial market where IP matters are so important for UK businesses looking to operate there.

“Sheila has worked in both the public and private sectors. Her previous roles include managing IP and technology transfer projects and providing support to foreign investors on IP. The valuable practical experience Sheila brings makes her ideally placed to build on the UK’s links with the Brazilian government and to provide British businesses with the support they have been asking for on intellectual property matters.”

Sheila Alves added: “Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world with one of the most rapidly developing economies so the potential market for British goods and services is enormous.

“My experience at Apex-Brasil, the Brazilian trade and investment promotion agency has provided me the opportunity to understand the difficulties faced by foreign investors trying to navigate the IP framework here. This is why I am really looking forward to making a positive impact for UK businesses which are already operating in, or looking to access the Brazilian market.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .