The role of INPI in protecting intellectual property
The National Institute of Industrial Property (Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial – INPI) is the main guardian of intellectual property rights in Brazil, serving as a key pillar for innovation, competitiveness, and the country’s economic development.
It is a federal autarchy linked to the Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce, and Services, responsible for implementing Brazil’s industrial property policy. This includes the registration and granting of patents, trademarks, industrial designs, geographical indications, and computer programs.
The role of INPI goes far beyond simply registering intellectual assets. It acts as a strategic agent in promoting innovation and protecting creators’ rights. Its main responsibilities include:
• Granting patents and utility models: Ensures inventors have the exclusive right to exploit their creations, encouraging investment in research and development.
• Registering trademarks and distinctive signs: Protects the visual identity of companies and products, strengthening fair competition and market reputation.
• Registering industrial designs: Safeguards product aesthetics, enhancing design as a competitive advantage.
• Protecting computer programs: Recognizes the value of digital innovation and secures developers’ rights.
• Recognizing geographical indications: Preserves local traditions and values regional products, such as Cerrado Mineiro coffee or Serra da Canastra cheese.
By protecting intellectual property rights, INPI directly contributes to:
• Stimulating innovation: Creators feel more secure investing in new ideas, knowing they have legal protection.
• Attracting investments: National and foreign companies trust a strong protection system to develop business in Brazil.
• Fighting piracy and unfair competition: INPI collaborates with other institutions to promote an ethical and sustainable business environment.
Since 2021, INPI has been involved in implementing the National Intellectual Property Strategy (Estratégia Nacional de Propriedade Intelectual – ENPI), which aims to strengthen the National Intellectual Property System. ENPI promotes actions such as:
• Intellectual property education in basic schooling
• Promotion of green technologies
• Technical cooperation for innovation
• Monitoring actions through biennial plans
INPI is more than a technical agency — it is a facilitator of creativity, innovation, and sustainable development. Through its strategic role, it transforms ideas into valuable assets, driving Brazil toward a knowledge-based economy.
If you are an inventor, entrepreneur, or creator, understanding and using INPI’s services is an essential step to protect what you create and to contribute to a stronger innovation ecosystem.
