Strengthening IP Collaboration: BIP SXM Visits BOIP & the Netherlands Patent Office
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — On July 2nd, 2025, the Director of the Bureau for Intellectual Property Sint Maarten (BIP SXM), Mrs. Vincentia Rosen-Sandiford, conducted a working visit to two important partners in the field of intellectual property: the Benelux Office for Intellectual Property (BOIP) and the Netherlands Patent Office.
Deepening Partnership with BOIP
BOIP has long served as a strategic and technical partner to BIP SXM, supporting the Bureau in advancing trademark registration and providing essential back-office services for trademark filings in Sint Maarten. The working relationship between both organizations has enabled the establishment of an online trademark registration system that offers a transparent and efficient process for rightsholders and their representatives.
One of the key topics during this visit was the upcoming launch of a secure e-filing system, which will enable trademark holders and representatives to file their applications directly through the BIP SXM website. This modernization initiative aims to increase accessibility and efficiency in line with international standards.
Additionally, the discussions with BOIP covered broader strategic goals for BIP SXM, including:
- Strengthening organizational capacity;
- Other digital automation of services;
- Reviewing legislative and policy frameworks;
- Analyzing fee structures and service diversification;
- Collaborating on the development of a national IP strategy for Sint Maarten.
The visit also served as a moment to plan for BIP SXM’s 10-year anniversary on October 1st, 2025, where BOIP is expected to contribute to workshops tailored for IP professionals on the island and celebratory activities of the anniversary.
Engagement with the Netherlands Patent Office
The Director also met with Dr. Maja Schmitt, then interim-director of the Netherlands Patent Office, a department of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). The Netherlands Patent Office plays a key role in patent registration throughout the Kingdom of the Netherlands, including Sint Maarten.
Over the years, BIP SXM and the Netherlands Patent Office have worked together on raising awareness about patents and their benefits through campaigns and workshops. This collaboration will continue, with BIP SXM scheduled to participate in tailored online workshops provided by the Netherlands Patent Office later this year. These workshops are designed to further equip the Bureau's team in educating the public and supporting inventors and entrepreneurs.
Congratulations to Dr. Schmitt
As of August 1st, 2025, Dr. Maja Schmitt will officially assume the position of Director of the Netherlands Patent Office. BIP SXM extends sincere congratulations to Dr. Schmitt and looks forward to continued fruitful cooperation under her leadership.
For more updates on our upcoming e-filing system, public workshops, and anniversary celebrations, stay connected via our website and social media channels.
