ANDEMA and FEMP sign an agreement to strengthen IP Protection

The Association for Brand Protection (ANDEMA) and the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP) have signed a collaborative agreement aimed at enhancing the protection of industrial property at the local level and raising awareness among citizens and local administrations about the dangers of activities that infringe on trademark rights, such as counterfeiting.

The agreement, signed by ANDEMA’s Director General, Gerard Guiu Ribé, and FEMP’s Secretary General, Luis Martínez-Sicluna Sepúlveda, in Madrid, establishes a framework for cooperation between the two organizations. This collaboration will focus on designing, developing, and implementing initiatives that benefit municipalities in their efforts to defend industrial property, support local commerce, and protect consumers.

Guiu emphasized the vital role that cities and towns play in safeguarding industrial property and combating counterfeiting. “The vibrancy of local communities depends on protecting commerce, which in turn supports local employment and the safety and health of citizens. By defending industrial property and promoting awareness, we help secure these benefits,” he said.

Martínez-Sicluna added that the agreement formalizes the federation’s commitment to defending trademarks and local businesses. “Together, we are advancing local action against counterfeiting and raising public awareness,” he explained.

Under the agreement, ANDEMA and FEMP will collaborate on various initiatives, including forums and training activities, providing guidance and sharing best practices with municipalities to promote legal commerce and curb illegal street vending. They will also develop plans and programs to increase public understanding of the value of industrial property and the significant harm caused by counterfeiting.