April 28, 2023
WASHINGTON – The Entertainment Software Association (ESA), the leading voice of the U.S. video game industry, issued the following statement on the 2023 Special 301 Report released by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).
“We congratulate Ambassador Tai, the staff at USTR and their interagency partners on the release of the 2023 Special 301 Report,” said President and CEO of ESA, Stanley Pierre-Louis. “The USTR’s continued focus on market access and enforcement challenges shines a light on the importance of eliminating burdensome regulations that hinder the delivery of leading interactive entertainment to consumers worldwide. Fair and non-discriminatory trade rules ensure creators and their intellectual property are protected while also supporting economic growth and high-paying American jobs.”
The 2023 USTR’s Special 301 Report highlights the foundational importance of intellectual property (IP) to U.S. innovative industries and urges trading partners to improve IP protection and enforcement while removing barriers that hinder competition. The video game industry appreciates the U.S. government’s regular engagement with the governments of our trading partners in conducting the annual Special 301 review, which remains a key trade policy tool in advancing strong support for creative industries.
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About the ESA
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) serves as the voice and advocate for the U.S. video game industry. Its members are the innovators, creators, publishers and business leaders that are reimagining entertainment and transforming how we interact, learn, connect and play. The ESA works to expand and protect the dynamic marketplace for video games through innovative and engaging initiatives that showcase the positive impact of video games on people, culture and the economy. For more information, visit the ESA’s website or follow the ESA on Twitter @theESA.
