The IP Bureau of Sint Maarten (BIP) has met a representative from the government’s Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunication to present its financial statement for last year. During the presentation, the director of the office described the hard work being done following recent natural disasters. “The devastating after-effects of hurricanes Irma and Maria in September 2017 have, as expected, had a major impact on the entire region and on Sint Maarten,” they said. “The year 2018, thus, was a period of recovery for the Bureau. Although the road to full recovery is long, together we can all contribute towards Sint Maarten’s growth and this is what the Bureau aims to do. The Bureau looks forward to being more visible in the public by creating more awareness about intellectual property rights which will aid in the further development of the country’s economy.” As part of the statement, the director also pledged to increase awareness of IP across the country, especially in relation to small and micro businesses. (TJL)
