The TRIPS Agreement emphasizes the importance of technology transfer, particularly to Least Developed Countries (LDCs). Article 66.2 of the agreement mandates developed countries to incentivize enterprises and institutions to facilitate technology transfer to LDCs, aiming to build a robust technological foundation.
Since the establishment of a transparency mechanism in 2003, over 400 reports from developed countries have been submitted under Article 66.2. These reports detail actions and commitments toward promoting technology transfer. The TRIPS Council has reviewed these reports 21 times, providing insights into effective strategies and best practices.
At the opening session of a workshop on this subject, DDG Hill highlighted that "the future of trade - digital, green, and services-driven - will have technology at its core." She noted trade's crucial role in LDC development and emphasized the need for continued efforts in sectors like agriculture and digital technologies. "Technology transfer empowers LDCs to build production capacities; it fosters innovation and drives sustainable development," she stated.
Ms. Ivanov-Durand, Chair-Designate of the TRIPS Council, stressed technology's critical role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for LDCs. She mentioned that Article 66.2 recognizes the link between access to technology and development within LDCs' need for a solid technological base.
She also referenced the upcoming TRIPS Council meeting on March 20-21, where discussions will continue on reports from nine developed members regarding their commitments to technology transfer. Ms. Ivanov-Durand encouraged LDC members to share workshop insights during these deliberations.
Representing the LDC Group, Ms. Kadra Ahmed Hassan expressed gratitude towards the WTO Secretariat for organizing the workshop and acknowledged developed countries' detailed reports submitted in 2024. She underscored the importance of informal dialogue between LDCs and developed nations, highlighting that tailored programs are essential for addressing priority needs based on shared experiences.
Ms. Hassan reiterated the longstanding interest of the LDC Group in this mechanism, noting that the workshop "provides an opportunity to promote dialogue and coordination between LDC members and developed-country members at the level of the Council’s deliberations."
The three-day workshop will culminate with participants attending a formal meeting of the Council for TRIPS on March 20, 2025.