Provides advice on IPR protection, including information on the registration of patents and trademarks.

Several general principles are important for effective management of intellectual property (IP) rights in the Netherlands.  IP may be protected differently in the Netherlands than in the United States.  U.S. trademark and patent registrations will not provide IP protection in the Netherlands.  There is no “international copyright” that will automatically protect IP throughout the world.  Ultimately, protection against unauthorized use of IP in a country depends on the national laws of that country.  Most countries, however, do offer copyright protection in foreign works in accordance with international agreements.

Patent and trademark registrations are generally granted on a first-to-file basis.  It is vital that companies understand that intellectual property is primarily a private right and that the U.S. government cannot enforce rights for private individuals in the Netherlands.  It is the responsibility of the right’s holders to register, protect, and enforce their rights where relevant by retaining their own counsel and advisors.  Companies may wish to seek advice from local attorneys or IP consultants who are experts in Dutch law.  The U.S. Commercial Service can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

In any foreign market, companies should consider several general principles for effective management and protection of their intellectual property.  For background on these principles, please refer to the articles on protecting intellectual property and corruption.

IP Attaché Contact covering the Netherlands
Name: Susan Wilson
Address: U.S. Mission to the European Union
Boulevard du Régent 27
BE-1000
Brussels, Belgium
Telephone: +32 2-811-5308
Email: susan.wilson@trade.gov

 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.