Plant variety protection: Which system of protection in the member states of OAPI?

The article describes the progress in providing a system of plant variety protection (PVP) in the states of the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI). Following a brief introduction to the missions of OAPI, the challenge of creating a system of PVP suited to the situation in the member states is explored. The solution to this challenge, the introduction of a uniform system in accord with UPOV guidelines, was achieved by the agreement, and ratification in 2002, of Annex X of the Bangui Agreement. The practicalities of setting up testing and examination centers, and the determination of the initial 19 genera and species for protection from the start date in 2006 are described. Finally, the potential societal and economic benefits flowing from this form of PVP are summarized.