1 Introduction

Intellectual property rights have an impact on the overall economy.

There has been a significant global increase in the number of rights registered. International trade and cooperation based on intellectual property rights are on the rise. Companies increasingly use intellectual property rights to establish cooperative relationships and share knowledge and technology. Trade in pirated goods and illegal downloads of software, music and film have also grown significantly over the last decade.

The economic significance of intellectual property rights increases in line with their use. When intellectual property rights become more economically significant, they also become more important from an industry and commerce trade policy perspective.

This is an excerpt from the White Paper Unique ideas, major assets – concerning intellectual assets and intellectual property rights (Meld. St. 28 (2012–2013)).