On April 11, 2025, members of the AmCham Intellectual Property and Digital Regulation Committee met with the leadership of the Slovenian Intellectual Property Office (URSIL) at the premises of Philip Morris. The guest of the meeting, Director Karin Žvokelj, MSc presented the strategic directions of the office, current challenges, and opportunities for collaboration with the business sector. 

Intellectual property is no longer a marginal topic. Analyses by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) clearly show that its significance is rapidly increasing. The value of intangible assets – such as trademarks, patents, and know-how – grew by as much as 28% between 2023 and 2024. These values are highest in technologically advanced environments. In this context, Slovenia must actively develop its IP ecosystem, as it is a key component of the economy’s future. 

Among the main highlights were URSIL’s achievements over the past year, especially the adoption of the first National Intellectual Property Strategy 2030, which positioned Slovenia among the leading European countries in this field. As one of the few EU countries, Slovenia is also systematically addressing the valuation of intellectual property, collaborating with WIPO and South Korea within the framework of a joint pilot project. 

Special attention was given to the preparation of an action plan to implement the strategy, which will define concrete measures, responsibilities, and timelines. Committee members expressed a desire to actively participate in the development of the plan, as the key points of their position paper largely align with URSIL’s goals. 

The discussion also highlighted the need to develop financial instruments for SMEs, accelerate digital transformation, and address the staffing challenge – the lack of professionals who combine legal and technological expertise. 

URSIL aims to position itself as a partner to the business community and creators, not just a regulator. The meeting confirmed the importance of meaningful dialogue between the public and private sectors and opened the door for closer cooperation on future initiatives.