The correct, efficient use of the tools provided by the intellectual property system may improve the competitiveness and capacity for innovation of Mozambican enterprises, adding value to the country’s products and services. A rapid analysis shows that Mozambique possesses a wealth of natural resources that are unique in the region – flora, fauna, sea, rivers, lakes – giving it great potential in terms of tourism and agricultural, livestock and fishery products. His Excellency the President of the Republic of Mozambique, Armando Guebuza, has stated 2 that: “(The) difficult conditions experienced by many Mozambicans contrast with the reality surrounding them, where we find, in turn, natural resources to be exploited for the betterment of their lives; we find a vast, diverse natural, historical and cultural heritage for the promotion of tourism and the development of a variety of economic and social activities, including cultural industries”. The secret of developing the country and providing for the wellbeing of the Mozambican people lies solely in the correct exploitation and full appreciation of these resources. Countries that are far less extensive, that are less fortunate in terms of natural resources and climatic conditions and that have a large population manage to produce more food, and even to export to needy countries like Mozambique. This fact shows that it is not enough to have natural wealth – it is necessary to use knowledge to tame nature and use it for the benefit of humankind. In his communication, the President of the Republic underlined 3 that “... in some parts of the country we have an abundance of stone and clay – resources that are not much exploited for the improvement of domestic houses. In other areas of the country we are not sufficiently exploiting the opportunities for the emergence of small processing units for local production...”. 2 “Districts – the basis for boosting the fight against poverty”, communication presented at the ceremony for the inauguration of ministers, deputy ministers and provincial governors by His Excellency Mr Armando Guebuza, President of the Republic of Mozambique, February 14, 2005. 3 Ibidem.