The three-day intensive program focused on practical ideas for designing trade policies that support innovation and access to health technologies, including through intellectual property. The workshop was developed in close collaboration with the Secretariats of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and organized with the support of Morocco's Ministry of Industry and Trade.
Abdelouahed Rahal, Director General of Trade within the Ministry, opened the event, stating: "Conscious that economic development depends on improving living conditions and the well-being of its population, Morocco has undertaken major reforms to make healthcare more accessible and of better quality."
Participants heard from senior officials about implementing policies aimed at supporting equitable and sustainable access to health technologies. Speakers represented the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, and the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
Discussions on ways to promote access to medicines, diagnostics, and vaccines highlighted the need for coordinated actions due to the complex challenges related to health and climate change. During the closing roundtable, participants emphasized the necessity for agile collaboration among various government authorities. The goal is to find practical solutions that further integrate trade, intellectual property, and health policies.
The WTO Secretariat tailors workshops to specific regions and sub-regions. More information on face-to-face activities is available here.