Secretary Locke Statement on World IP Day

U.S. companies are among the most innovative in the world. As we celebrate World Intellectual Property Day we are reminded of the important role intellectual property rights play in stimulating American ingenuity and spurring economic growth and jobs.

Unfortunately, counterfeiting and piracy take an enormous toll on American industry and workers, costing billions of dollars and thousands of jobs each year. The Department of Commerce is working to combat this problem through trade agreement compliance, active engagement with foreign leaders, and educational outreach.

In this current economic climate, returning to prosperity will require ingenuity, hard work and patience. Protecting American innovation is more important than ever. The Department of Commerce remains committed to safeguarding intellectual property rights to help American businesses flourish, strengthen our economy and put Americans to work.