This guide explores intellectual property rights (IPRs) and their implications for the production and trade of goods and services within the emerging One African Market. IPRs are legal rights of ownership over processes and products granted to creators and inventors for a specific time period. Individuals and businesses can protect their processes and products, whether goods or services, using IPRs to ensure that they are not copied or used by others without authorization. IPRs can, therefore, contribute to businesses having a competitive edge in the marketplace – and securing revenue from their efforts, innovations and products.