2006 Press Releases 

U.S. recognizes Slovak efforts to improve intellectual property protection

Bratislava, May 4, 2006

U.S. Trade Representative Rob Portman has announced the results of the 2006 "Special 301" review of intellectual property practices of our trading partners.

Slovakia was taken off the Special 301 Watch List this year in recognition of the significant progress that the Slovak Government has made in addressing concerns related to the protection of pharmaceutical patents in Slovakia. Among the 52 countries listed in the 2005 Special 301 Review, Slovakia was one of only four countries to be removed from this year's Watch List in the April 28 announcement.

"This positive step is another example of close Slovak - U.S. economic cooperation," said U.S. Ambassador Rodolphe M. Vallee.

The U.S. Embassy and the American Chamber of Commerce Local Area Working Group (LAWG) worked with government officials for more than one year to successfully address two specific patent issues. First, the Slovak Government has made substantial progress toward ensuring that patent-infringing drugs are not given market authorization. Second, the government has designated a secure facility in Malacky to house confidential pharmaceutical test data and expects to complete renovations and move the files by August, 2006.

"Removal from the Special 301 Watch List sends an important signal to investors that Slovakia is a business-friendly market that protects the rights of intellectual property holders," said Ambassador Vallee. "It is especially important for knowledge-based businesses to know that their innovations will be supported by strong and enforceable intellectual property protection."

Details on the Special 301 announcement and background on the review process can be found at http://www.ustr.gov