The United States Chamber of Commerce advocates on a number of business-related issues, such as intellectual property (IP). The chamber believes that a national IP protection policy is essential to the United States’ success in the global markets of the 21st century. However, many governments overlook and even condone the denial of IP rights in their countries.
Theft of IP presents serious problems to many innovative enterprises operating outside the United States. Threats exist to copyright, trademarking, and patents. To combat this situation, the chamber launched a Global Anti-Counterfeiting and Piracy Initiative. This plan includes the vigorous public defense of IP rights and the creation of wide-ranging support for IP in business and in government. Finally, the chamber seeks to encourage proper use of IP in international markets and enhance enforcement of existing laws.