Por: O Estado de São Paulo
Brazilian Agency of Sanitarian Surveillance (Anvisa) and the National Institute of Intelectual Property (Inpi) were involved in a ten years dispute over who should give the last word on granting patents that may came to an end. Back in 2000, Anvisa received legal powers to interpose patents already approved by Inpi, if they were not addressing patentability requirements imposed by brazilin legislation. This measure was created to prevent abuses coming from pharmaceutical companies, though in the benefit of public health.
In decision signed recently by General-Federal Advocacy (AGU), Anvisa’s role was reduced to merely evaluate health risks that may be implied in the drugs applying for patent protection. According to some specialists, this isn’t even possible, because of the lack of information at this stage of the process.
This decision can lead to a less solid patent evaluation process, in benefit of international companies.
To read in Portuguese the full story published by Estado de São Paulo newspaper on this issue click here