The ASEAN IPR SME Helpdesk Guide: “Top 20 IPR considerations when entering a new market”

Intellectual property, as intangible assets, is a key factor in the competitiveness of European SMEs in the global economy. Protected IPR incentivises innovation, and is particularly relevant to SMEs as they internationalise their business via emerging markets such as those in Southeast Asia. The loss of business revenue, reputation and competitive advantage caused by IPR infringement affects EU SMEs both in Europe and in their core export markets. This guide provides an overview of the top 20 IP considerations in Southeast Asia for EU SMEs, from identifying IP assets to preparing a business to enforce its rights locally. The considerations are ordered as per the different stages a SME faces internationalising to Southeast Asia, and give concise summaries of the realities of doing business in Southeast Asia.