The overall objective of the project is to contribute to Moldova’s socio-economic development by enabling private stakeholders to use IPRs more effectively and by supporting the government in its provision of better IP services. The project is implemented by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IPI), in close cooperation with the project partner AGEPI. MSIP provides support to the following identified priority areas:

• Legal Support and technical assistance around GI system 
• IPR Enforcement
• IP Commercialisation & SME Support

1 Objectives | 2 Why Moldova? | 3 Relevance | 4 Who benefits? | 5 Project Facts

Since gaining its independence in 1991, the Republic of Moldova has undergone extensive restructuring to transition its economy from a centrally planned system to one that is sustainable, inclusive, and market-oriented. Aspiring to join the European Union, Moldova has worked to align its legislative framework with EU standards, including participation in IP conventions and treaties. Furthermore, the country has established free trade agreements, especially with the EU, and continues to prioritize the development and strengthening of its IP system to reduce reliance on external support and enhance domestic business capabilities. 

The State Agency on Intellectual Property in Moldova (AGEPI) is committed to modernizing the country's IP framework and bolstering enforcement efforts. These initiatives aim to empower businesses to effectively manage and capitalize on IP assets, thereby fostering socio-economic growth. Strengthening the agency's capacities is expected to improve the delivery of services to applicants and ensures a more robust IP infrastructure that meets international standards. 

Despite notable progress, Moldova faces challenges in implementing and enforcing IP rights. Counterfeiting and piracy remain significant issues, combined by a lack of specialized personnel, insufficient knowledge and training among IP authorities, and limited public awareness of the importance of IP protection. Additionally, inadequate funding for technology transfer offices and innovation hubs has hindered efforts to fully support businesses in realizing their IP potential. 

The MSIP Project seeks to address these challenges by enabling private stakeholders to utilize IP more effectively and by assisting the government in improving IP-related services. This includes enhancing IP Rights enforcement, providing legal and technical support, strengthening the geographical indications system, and fostering IP commercialization and SME support. By addressing these gaps, the project contributes to Moldova's broader socio-economic development while at the same time building climate resilience and sustainable management of local resources.

1 Objectives | 2 Why Moldova? | 3 Relevance | 4 Who benefits? | 5 Project Facts

The MSIP Project supports the Government of Moldova’s key socio-economic development goals by modernizing the IP framework and enhancing enforcement, in line with Moldova’s commitment to aligning its IP laws with the EU acquis. The project builds on existing efforts to improve the IP system, contributing to socio-economic growth, by collaborating with AGEPI to strengthen its capacity and improve services for applicants.

Moreover, AGEPI aims to strengthen the Moldovan economy in the post-COVID era by means of IP awareness raising activities, as well as by expanding its IP services to empower businesses to identify, manage and capitalize IP assets. Moldova is also keen on moving away from its dependence on foreign remittances. A robust IP system that improves the participation of the private sector and SMEs can contribute to this goal.

1 Objectives | 2 Why Moldova? | 3 Relevance | 4 Who benefits? | 5 Project Facts