Protection of intellectual property
The protection of intellectual property rights is well developed in Switzerland. A comprehensive system of patent, trademark, design and copyright protection guarantees that the results of innovation and creativity are protected at national and international levels. Patent applications, trademark or design registrations can be submitted to the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (Eidgenössisches Institut für Geistiges Eigentum, IGE). The key point for internationally active companies is that worldwide protection can therefore be achieved through a single entry.
The IGE, the agency responsible for commercial protective rights and copyrights, is a centre of competence for all aspects of patents, trademarks, designs, topographies of semiconductor products, copyrights and other related protective rights. Initial information about protective rights titles registered in Switzerland can be accessed via the IGE's own electronic protective rights register. As a member of the WTO, Switzerland implements the provisions of the WTO/TRIPS Agreement.
The Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property makes information from the trademark, patent and design register and on protected topographies available free of charge on the Swissreg database. Swissreg contains Swiss trademarks and applications for registration, but not international trademarks that could also lead to protective consequences in Switzerland. These international trademarks are registered with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva.
Guide for innovative and creative minds
Source: Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IGE)