Arab Intellectual Property Conference addresses AI in healthcare

The Fifth Arab Intellectual Property Conference has commenced in Cairo, focusing on the theme “The Impact of Intellectual Property Rights Protection on the Health Sector in the Era of Artificial Intelligence.” Organized by the Arab Organization for Administrative Development, the event brings together experts in law, medicine, and the pharmaceutical industry to discuss how rapid technological advancements affect innovation and regulation.

Participants highlighted the complexities introduced by artificial intelligence in drug discovery and the development of medical technologies. Discussions centered on the need for updated legal and regulatory frameworks to address AI-generated innovations, specifically regarding patent standards, novelty, and the legal status of AI-driven outputs.

Key speakers, including Dr. Ali Al-Ghamrawi of the Egyptian Drug Authority and Dr. Nasser Al-Qahtani of the Arab Organization for Administrative Development, emphasized the importance of balancing the protection of intellectual property to encourage investment with the necessity of ensuring equitable and sustainable access to medicine and healthcare.