The meeting of the Heads of IP Offices (HIPO) on the sidelines of the 2023 World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) General Assemblies was the first in-person meeting since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Within the framework of the BRICS bloc the IP BRICS forum exists to facilitate the achievement of unlocking mutually beneficial opportunities to increase trade, investment and infrastructure development. The benefits of Intellectual Property contributes largely to this achievement.

In yet another successful meeting chaired by Commissioner Rory Voller, he expressed his appreciation to the members for their continued contribution to the success of the IP BRICS forum. The discussions included exchange of views, agreeing on the general statement read at the Assemblies, providing progress on the allocated work streams, providing details on the preparation for the 15th HIPO meeting and preparation of the annual training programme. On behalf of the IP BRICS heads of IP Offices, Commissioner Voller also delivered the joint statement at the General Assemblies.

The 2023 BRICS summit will be the 15th annual event to be hosted and chaired by South Africa on 22 – 24 August. South Africa is pursuing the potential for growing trade and investment, as well as intra-African trade and investment, while advancing the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). The Agenda of the 15th BRICS summit within a range of matters includes the addition of new members and the possibility of a new common currency.