EPO and INTA sign letter of intent to deepen co-operation

EPO President António Campinos with INTA President Elisabeth Bradley together with CEO Etienne Sanz de Acedo and their respective delegations

On 26 September, the European Patent Office (EPO) welcomed a high-level delegation from the International Trademark Association (INTA) to its headquarters in Munich for a bilateral meeting with EPO President António Campinos. The organisations signed a letter of intent establishing a framework for co-operation, marking a significant milestone in their relationship.

A forward-looking partnership

In his opening remarks, President Campinos highlighted how the EPO’s Strategic Plan 2028, with its focus on sustainability, digital transformation, quality and global co-operation, aligns well with INTA’s newly adopted Strategic Plan 2026–2029. He underlined that working with INTA provides an opportunity to bridge the patent and trademark fields, reinforce trust in the global IP system and support innovation ecosystems worldwide.

The President also noted that user associations such as INTA are crucial partners in shaping the future of the IP system, stressing that co-operation will allow both organisations to deliver tangible benefits for businesses of all sizes, including startups and SMEs.

INTA’s vision and global reach

The INTA delegation, led by 2025 President Elisabeth Bradley together with CEO Etienne Sanz de Acedo, presented the association’s Strategic Plan 2026–2029. The plan emphasises the value of IP for brands and consumers, aims to advance the professional community and promote responsible corporate practices in IP. With its global reach and reputation, INTA is a key partner for amplifying joint EPO initiatives and ensuring they reach diverse IP stakeholders.

From vision to competitiveness and impact

Co-operation with INTA comes at a time when Europe is working to translate innovation into growth, simplify IP systems, and make IP more accessible, especially for smaller entities. These priorities are central to current European competitiveness strategies. By working together on training, certification and outreach, the EPO and INTA aim to help lower barriers for SMEs, improve regulatory clarity, and encourage greater use and commercialisation of IP. Shared focus on promoting the Unitary Patent and strengthening patent knowledge through the EPO Observatory will further reinforce these efforts.