Argentina launches structural IP reform following U.S. trade agreement

On February 5, 2026, Argentina and the United States signed the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade and Investment. This bilateral instrument has direct and far-reaching implications for Argentina’s Intellectual Property (IP) framework.

Accession to key international treaties

Argentina has committed to joining the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) in 2026. In 2027, it will accede to the international systems for trademark and design registration (Madrid and Hague), the Patent Law Treaty (PLT), UPOV 1991, and the Budapest Treaty on the International Recognition of the Deposit of Microorganisms. These steps will align Argentina with core international IP standards.

Pharmaceutical and biotechnology patents

Argentina has undertaken to broadly grant pharmaceutical and biotechnology patents by repealing the existing Joint Resolution that currently restricts their scope. This represents a significant shift in policy and is expected to enhance legal certainty and attract foreign investment in R&D.

Enforcement and institutional strengthening

Argentina will fully enforce existing international obligations, including the Paris Convention, and strengthen protection for geographical indications. The government will reduce patent backlog, intensify anti-piracy and anti-counterfeiting actions both offline and online, enact effective civil and criminal remedies (including injunctions), and potentially establish a specialized IP infringement court.

Legislative and executive implementation

Certain measures require Congressional approval, while others depend on presidential action. Given the strong alignment between both governments, implementation appears politically feasible.

We will continue monitoring developments and report on further regulatory updates.