WILLEMSTAD - Curaçao Industrial and International Trade Development Company (CURINDE) announces its partnership in hosting the 2024 International Law Enforcement Intellectual Property Crime Conference, marking the first time the event will be held in the Caribbean. This collaboration is also historic as it represents the first time an Economic Zone has partnered with the conference, highlighting CURINDE's commitment to advancing global efforts in combating intellectual property (IP) crime.
Mr. Charles Cooper, Minister of Economic Development, highlighted the importance of this collaboration "CURINDE's partnership underscores our government's strong commitment to the global fight against intellectual property crimes, particularly within Free Trade Zones. We are actively transforming these zones into areas poised to embrace global trends like nearshoring. Our government is diligently positioning Curaçao as a prime destination for companies to establish and grow their businesses globally. Central to this effort is our unwavering commitment to strengthening IP protection."
Since 2014, Curaçao has made significant progress in strengthening IP protection within its economic zones. Legal reforms and a strategic partnership with the International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition (IACC) have enhanced the ability to prosecute IP crimes. Additionally, training provided by brand owners and U.S. Homeland Security has empowered customs officers and law enforcement to effectively combat counterfeiting.
CURINDE remains committed to ensuring its economic zones are safe and secure environments, positioning them as prime locations for global business expansion. The efforts of CURINDE, Customs, and law enforcement are key to diversifying the economy and achieving the government’s broader economic vision.
IP crimes not only undermine economic systems but also contribute to larger criminal activities, including organized crime and terrorism, which are often funded by counterfeit sales. Protecting intellectual property is, therefore, critical for both economic stability and public safety.
CURINDE expresses its gratitude to INTERPOL, UL Standards & Engagement, and the International IP Crime Investigators College for choosing Curaçao as the venue for this 17th annual event, and thanks to all those who made it possible, especially INTERPOL's Mr. Michael Romer.