Office of Intellectual Property Rights (OIPR)

The Office of Intellectual Property Rights (OIPR) of the U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration works with U.S. firms to help them protect their intellectual property abroad. Commerce experts can suggest strategies to evaluate IPR problems encountered abroad and will work with our Embassies around the world to pursue a course of action for resolution of the problems. In many cases, the U.S. government can provide companies with information to aid in navigating a foreign government's legal system, including lists of local investigative firms and attorneys, and share experiences and expertise in that country. However, the government cannot provide American companies with legal advice or advocate on a company's behalf when a matter is before a court or administrative agency. Companies can contact OIPR with complaints by telephone at (202) 482-5767 or email via our Contact Us page.