The Association Agreement (AA) between the European Union (EU) and the Republic of Moldova fully entered into force on 1st of July 2016.  The AA aims to deepen political and social-economic relations between the EU and the Republic of Moldova, creates a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA). It envisages comprehensive approximation of its trade-related laws and regulations to Union standards and If implemented fully, it will facilitate Moldova's progressive integration with the EU single market.

Under the DCFTA Chapter 9 “Intellectual Property Rights” (IPR) are stated comprehensive obligations of Moldova to implement the IPR provisions of the agreement. The Chapter covers provisions on copyright and related rights, trademarks, geographical indications, designs, patents including the supplementary protection certificate and detailed provisions on enforcement of IPR, including border measures. Also the IPR issues are addressed in Chapter 24 “Cooperation in research, technological development and demonstration”.

The EU Project „Support to Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights” aims to support the beneficiary and partner institutions in achieving the objectives set in the chapter of IPR under the DCFTA.

Project Objectives

The overall objective of the Project is to improve the application of the law and regulations on Intellectual Property Rights in Moldova.

The specific purposes are as follows:

• To improve the communication and co-ordination of agencies involved in implementing the laws and regulations of the IPR;
• To develop an IT Communication Platform on IPR ;
• To build a Programme of cultural change in the intellectual property environment;
• To consolidate the Geographical Indications System.