The recently imposed U.S. tariffs on European products may require European companies to revise their international intellectual property (IP) strategy. There may be an increased need for local IP protection in the United States, for the following reasons:
To circumvent tariffs, companies may relocate production facilities to the U.S. In this context, securing investments through U.S. IP rights becomes increasingly important. Competitive pressure in the U.S. market is expected to rise.
U.S. IP rights can help to secure market share and create effective barriers against the entry of U.S. competitors. Anticipated trade conflicts raise legal risks. IP rights serve as a key defense mechanism.
European companies with business activities in the United States in particular should review and, if necessary, adapt their U.S. IP strategy. Trademark, design, and patent applications in the U.S. are becoming increasingly strategic.