Intellectual property and sport: a strategic lever for development

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, celebrated World Intellectual Property Day at the Montana Hotel, under the theme: “Industrial Property and Sport in Haiti: Together, Let’s Move Towards Innovation.” The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Prime Minister’s representative, Peguy Jean, as well as members of the government and representatives from the public and private sectors.


From the outset, the Ministry highlighted the strategic role of intellectual property in structuring the Haitian economy. Discussions focused on the challenges related to protecting creations and promoting innovation. Special recognition was also given to the Haitian national football team, which was commended for its participation in international competitions.

In this context, the Legal Affairs Department presented the prizes for the national essay competition, recognizing the talent of young university students, and also honored several major brands.  On this occasion, a discussion session was held to better explain the mechanisms of industrial property and the importance of trademark protection in the context of economic modernization.

Speaking to the audience, the Minister of Commerce and Industry, James Monazard, emphasized that intellectual property is a key pillar of Haiti's sustainable development. In this regard, he stressed the need to create an environment conducive to innovation in order to boost business competitiveness and attract investment. Furthermore, he highlighted the link between industry and sports, which he believes will open new economic opportunities, particularly through the promotion of brands, talent, and local expertise. Along the same lines, he called for increased support for young creators and entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into growth opportunities, while simultaneously strengthening the legal framework for the protection of works and inventions.

 Speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister, the Acting PM's Representative, Peguy Jean, emphasized that this day, dedicated to sports, holds strategic importance for the country's future. He reaffirmed the Government's commitment to making sports a true driver of development, supporting the Grenadiers (the national football team), businesses, and national brands in a dynamic approach based on protection, promotion, and competitiveness. In this context, intellectual property is seen as an essential tool for securing innovations, strengthening brand identity, and stimulating economic growth.

He also stressed the need to value the talent, creativity, and critical thinking skills of young Haitians, particularly university students, who are called upon to play a key role in addressing these challenges.  Finally, he reaffirmed the Government's commitment to youth, considered a pillar of sustainable development and the modernization of Haiti.

For his part, the Minister of Culture and Communication, Emmanuel Ménard, emphasized the importance of making innovation accessible to all and of promoting Haitian creative potential. In this regard, he encouraged greater ownership of intellectual property as a tool for national development.

Concurrently, businesses were invited to showcase their products, demonstrating the Ministry of Culture and Communication's (MCI) commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs.

Representing the Director of the MCI, Augustin Roberto, stated in his remarks the importance of this day in the Ministry's commitment to promoting intellectual property in Haiti. Mr. Roberto took the opportunity to thank the partners and participants for their contribution to the event's success.  Pleased with the achievement of our national football team, Mr. Roberto emphasized that sport, a reflection of society, embodies collective energy and the will for progress. Finally, he reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to supporting innovators, protecting creative works, and strengthening the national economy for the benefit of all.

In short, through this initiative, the Ministry reaffirms its commitment to encouraging entrepreneurs, creators, and athletes to protect their work and to make innovation a key driver of Haiti's development.