2 March 2025 marks 33 years since the operation of the Latvian Patent Office (LPO) has been restored in independent Latvia. Since the renewal of its activities in1992, the LPO has become an important state institution ensuring the registration and protection of industrial property (IP) rights and promoting innovation development in Latvia.
The LPO has two important dates – its establishment on 9 February 1920, and the resumption of its activities in independent Latvia on 2 March 1992, considering that due to the occupation of Latvia on 17 June 1940, the system of IP protection could not function in the same way as in independent states.
With Latvia regaining its independence, the Council of Ministers adopted the decision “On the Establishment of the Patent Office” on 19 February 1992, and the renewed LPO began its operation on 2 March 1992.
The LPO is a member of several international organizations. In 1993, the Republic of Latvia acceded to the Convention Establishing the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). In 2005, Latvia became the 31st full member state of the European Patent Organization. Upon joining the European Union, Latvia automatically became a member state of the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) in 2004.
Until the beginning of 1993, the registration of IP rights was regulated by temporary regulatory acts. The second year of the LPO’s operation began with the adoption of the Patent Law and the Law on Trademarks, and Design Protection Law. Over the following years, these laws were amended and finally replaced by the new ones.
The main task of the LPO is to ensure the protection of IP rights, promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in Latvia. Its scope of activity includes the registration of patents, trademarks, and industrial designs, providing entrepreneurs and inventors with legal protection and competitive advantages in both the domestic and international marketplaces.
During these 33 years, the LPO has undergone significant changes, adapting to the latest technological solutions and international trends. By introducing modernized registration processes and digital services, it provides customers with more efficient and convenient access to services. The LPO will continue to work on strengthening IP rights and promoting public awareness, thus contributing to the development of innovation and the economic growth of Latvia.
This year, the LPO also celebrates its 105th anniversary, and in honour of this important event, an international conference “Intellectual Property as a Catalyst for Innovation and Growth: Connecting Research, Technology and SMEs” and the Latvian Intellectual Property Awards Ceremony will be organized on April 8. WIPO Director General Daren Tang, President of the European Patent Office António Campinos, and EUIPO Executive Director João Negrão have confirmed their participation in the conference.