Remarks by Mr João Negrão, Executive Director of EUIPO, at the Opening of the 2026 EUIPO Observatory Plenary Meeting

Remarks by Mr João Negrão, Executive Director of EUIPO, at the Opening of the 2026 EUIPO Observatory Plenary Meeting

 

Mr João Negrão, Executive Director of the European Union Intellectual Property Office – EUIPO, delivered opening remarks on the first day of the Plenary Meeting of the European Observatory on Infringements of Intellectual Property Rights, on 15 September 2026.

The event takes place on 15–16 September 2026 in Alicante, Spain, bringing together representatives of European institutions, national authorities, the private sector, civil society and international organisations to discuss the Observatory’s work and priorities in the field of intellectual property.

InfoCons, an active member of the EUIPO Observatory, is represented at the meeting by its President, Mr Sorin Mierlea, supporting the representation of consumers’ interests in the European dialogue on awareness, combating counterfeiting and respecting intellectual property rights.

Who is João Negrão?

João Negrão is the Executive Director of EUIPO, a position he has held since October 2023. A Portuguese national, he has extensive experience in public administration and intellectual property at both national and European levels.

Before taking over the leadership of EUIPO, he served as Head of the Executive Director’s Cabinet, Director of International Cooperation and Legal Affairs, and President of the Boards of Appeal. Previously, he held positions in Portuguese public administration and at Portugal’s National Institute of Industrial Property. 

What is the European Union Intellectual Property Office – EUIPO?

EUIPO is a European Union agency headquartered in Alicante, Spain, responsible for administering EU trade marks and registered EU designs. These rights provide protection throughout the EU and complement national intellectual property systems.

The Office works with European institutions, national offices and professional organisations to encourage convergence of practices and develop accessible services. Since 2012, EUIPO has also managed the European Observatory on Infringements of Intellectual Property Rights, supporting research, awareness and cooperation in this field.