Introduction Women remain underrepresented in the global use and registration of intellectual property (IP), including in Laos. Within the One District One Product (ODOP) program, which promotes locally made goods, only ten of the 1,800 registered products belonged to women-owned enterprises at the commencement of this project. Recognising the untapped potential of women entrepreneurs, the Government of Laos launched a dedicated initiative to raise awareness of IP and support trademark registration for women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This project expanded outreach beyond Vientiane's capital to reach underserved provinces. The initiative aimed to help women entrepreneurs unlock business growth, enhance product visibility, and improve access to domestic and regional markets by providing targeted branding and IP registration assistance
Project: Accelerating Women’s Advancement in Intellectual Property Commenced: November 2023 Regional or National: National - Laos Partner: The Lao PDR Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Department of Intellectual Property Status: Completed Objectives The project aimed to economically empower women in Laos by increasing the number of women-owned enterprises within the ODOP program that obtain intellectual property rights. The initiative focused on: Raising awareness and understanding of intellectual property among women entrepreneurs Supporting trademark design, branding, and registration for women-led MSMEs Leveraging regional expertise to expand market opportunities and competitiveness Strengthening partnerships with regional IP offices and women’s business associations Outcomes Expanded IP Awareness: Women entrepreneurs gained a stronger understanding of trademark systems and IP processes Trademark Registrations: 14 women-led MSMEs successfully registered their trademarks, enhancing brand protection and business credibility Improved Business Visibility: Participating businesses developed stronger branding and packaging, increasing their appeal in local and regional markets Support Networks: A network of mentors and stakeholders was established to sustain women’s participation in IP systems Trade Inclusion: The project laid the groundwork for greater participation by Lao women in regional and global trade This project advanced inclusive economic development and long-term growth in Laos by equipping women entrepreneurs with the tools to better understand and use intellectual property. Find out more about AANZFTA Explore More RT4D Projects and Their Impact
