USTR Announces New Office Focused On Intellectual Property

 Following a meeting with House Majority Whip Roy Blunt, United States Trade Representative Susan Schwab today announced the creation of a new Intellectual Property office, headed by Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Victoria A. Espinel, and several additions to the USTR team. Intellectual property issues were previously covered at USTR in the Office of Services, Investment and Intellectual Property.

"Americans are among the world's greatest innovators, in no small part because of the strength of our respect for intellectual property rights in the United States," said Ambassador Schwab. "In the global economy, maintaining protections for American innovations abroad is critical to advancing U.S. competitiveness. Protection of Intellectual Property by other nations is also critical to their own economic development, including promotion of indigenous innovations, creativity and access to innovations by consumers and promoters of innovation."

"The creation of a new office at USTR enhances our focus on protecting intellectual property," continued Schwab. "Since joining USTR in 2001, Ms. Espinel has been a driving force in advancing intellectual property protections through the World Trade Organization, our free trade agreements, and numerous other diplomatic channels. She brings a wealth of experience to the position, and will continue to put her skills to great use in this new role."

USTR is increasing both financial resources and staff for the new office, including a Chief Negotiator for Intellectual Property Enforcement. Stanford McCoy will serve as the Chief Negotiator for Intellectual Property Enforcement and will lead the office's intellectual property enforcement efforts, with a special focus on priority countries, including China and Russia.