Press Releases
Croatia Makes Progress in Protecting Intellectual Property Rights
EMBASSY OF THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Public Affairs Section
Zagreb, Croatia
CROATIA MAKES PROGRESS IN PROTECTING INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Zagreb, May 2, 2007 -- On April 30th, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced Croatia's removal from the "Special 301 Watch List". The Special 301 Report is issued annually and identifies countries that deny adequate and effective protection for intellectual property rights. Croatia had been on the Watch List since 2003. In removing Croatia from the Watch List, the USTR cited Croatia's progress in protecting intellectual property rights over the last several years. The U.S. Embassy welcomes this decision and encourages Croatia to continue its work to enhance the awareness and protection of intellectual property. Strong protection of intellectual property rights is a key element of today's knowledge economy. Sustained progress in this area will be essential for the successful development of such industries in Croatia.