PhDThe process of globalization and the emergence of a rules-based multilateral trading
system pose significant challenges to local pharmaceutical industries in developing
countries. With the advent of global patent protection for pharmaceuticals,
developing countries are facing a significant dilemma. It is necessary for these
countries to comply with international intellectual property standards while
simultaneously protecting their local industries and, thus, ensuring an affordable
supply of drugs. A better understanding of the nature of the Agreement on Trade
Related Aspects of Intellectual Property (TRIPS Agreement) and its components
could help to raise awareness of the need for a comprehensive innovation policy. It is
widely accepted that intellectual property rights (IPRs) are economic assets.
Furthermore, they are necessary to develop world-class standards of innovation and
creativity. Nevertheless, this thesis argues that innovation is not driven by the
presence of strong IPRs alone; it has many other components going far beyond the
IPRs regime. Nonetheless, designing policies for the promotion of R&D and the
building up of innovation capacities in developing countries requires a wellconstructed
patent regime. However, it also requires the implementation of broadbased
science, technology and innovation policy initiatives aimed at promoting and
facilitating capacity building for the enhanced absorption of new technologies.
To this end, this thesis investigates the concept of innovation and illustrates the
crucial role that patent strategies play within processes of pharmaceutical innovation.
Drawing on extensive country and company case studies, the thesis identifies the key
issues relevant to the revival of local pharmaceutical industries. Based on an
understanding of the post-TRIPS environment and case studies of national
innovation strategies, this thesis specifically addresses the following question - to
what extent can lessons from national experiences be transferred to current policy
developments for innovation in the pharmaceutical industry in a developing country
context?
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The research findings aim to contribute significantly to the body of knowledge in
relation to new developmental policies. Overall, it is hoped that these findings can
promote innovation and ensure the sustainability of the local pharmaceutical industry
in the developing world.Centre for Commercial Law Studies Queen Mary University of London
Cental Reseach Fund
British council
Swedish Institut
