This is incorrect — lots of Kiwi businesses have lost opportunities because they failed to realise the implications of their IP actions (or inactions).

Some markets are more risky than others, and may have looser rules in place for protecting IP. If you’re thinking of expanding offshore, or dealing with overseas manufacturers or suppliers, it’s important to find out more about how to protect your IP.

All business owners need to:

• Understand there’s no such thing as worldwide IP protection – different countries have different rules.
• Be aware that potential competitors (and counterfeiters) watch the IP registers of different countries to find new opportunities, brands and ideas.
• Consider where their business is going and what IP steps they might need to take to protect themselves in other markets.
• Find out if there are time limits such as renewal dates on IP protections they put in place. For example, a patent application filed in New Zealand will be made public after 18 months. This means the clock is ticking to further protect or capitalise on your IP.

Intellectual property protection for exporters(external link) — New Zealand Trade and Enterprise

Useful resources:

Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand(external link)

World Intellectual Property Office(external link)