The Africa IP SME Helpdesk supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the European Union (EU) to both protect and enforce their Intellectual Property (IP) rights in/or relating to Africa by providing free information and services. These comprise jargon-free, first-line, confidential advice on intellectual property and related issues, as well as training, materials and online resources.
About us
Find more information about the team, partners and the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
Helpline
Our Intellectual Property experts provide professional, confidential and tailor-made answers to your IP-related questions within a maximum of 3 working days
IP Resources Library
This library provides open-access IP materials especially designed for EU SMEs doing business in Africa
Contact us
E-mail: africa [dot] iphelpdesk
euipo [dot] europa [dot] eu (africa[dot]iphelpdesk[at]euipo[dot]europa[dot]eu)
Phone Number: Europe (Spain): +34 96 513 9810
Opening hours: Monday to Friday – 8:30 to 18:30 (CET/CEST)
Africa - Latest News
Discover how South Africa is advancing renewable energy through innovation, patents, and supportive government programs like REIPPPP. Learn how IP rights and global initiatives are empowering inventors and SMEs to drive sustainable growth in the green energy sector.
Ethiopia's food sector powers its economy but faces funding and market challenges. Discover how SMEs can drive growth through smart use of intellectual property—like trademarks, patents, and trade secrets—to boost innovation, secure investment, and expand into global markets.
Rwanda boosts its startup ecosystem with a new Intellectual Property Law, strengthening patent and trademark protection to foster innovation, attract investment, and support global expansion.
Nigeria’s media industry is booming, with Nollywood and Afrobeats driving global recognition. With streaming, AI, and increased investment fueling growth, the new Copyright Act aims to tackle piracy and protect creatives.
Geographical indications (GIs) are transforming Africa’s local economies, protecting unique products, and boosting market value. While OAPI leads with six registered GIs, Nigeria is drafting its first GI law, paving the way for global recognition and economic growth.
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