There are several key aspects of Thailand’s registration process that rights holders need to know, from the first-to-file system to renewals. One crucial element is that examiners often consider abbreviated marks to be non-distinctive; the same goes for captions or descriptions of goods or services.
Securing geographical indications in China can be difficult for brand owners, but gaining a thorough understanding the current examination practices will increase the chances of success. The CNIPA issued guidelines last year that clarify the boundaries of these rights, which should bolster post-registration protection.
Recent amendments to the IP Law emphasise the role of third-party observations in the examination of trademark applications. The new legislation makes it easier for third parties to bring potential conflicts to the IP office and serves as a cost-effective safeguard in Vietnam’s registration system.
Products that are refurbished without authorisation can be a problem for rights holders looking to safeguard their brand image. It is therefore crucial to understand what constitutes infringement when it comes to refurbished goods.
01 August 2024
EUIPO representatives examine the role that the office plays in shaping a cohesive and robust IP environment across Europe, and the lasting impact that this has on the collective and global IP system.
31 July 2024
The US Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit has held Nike liable for trademark infringement over the use of Lontex’s COOL COMPRESSION trademark in its apparel line descriptions. Under plenary review and abuse of discretion, the Third Circuit reviewed the lower court’s decision on whether a jury could find infringement.
31 July 2024
WTR’s monthly column tracks trademark and related policy developments, including the progress of major bills, from around the world.
29 July 2024
The decision underscores the importance of clear and precise identification of goods in trademark applications, and serves as a reminder to applicants to thoroughly address all grounds for refusal during the prosecution process.
29 July 2024
The Delhi High Court’s declaration that well-known trademark status does not give the proprietor automatic rights has highlighted the importance of prior common law and registered marks in India. It implies that an appreciation of circumstances – not just similarities between two marks – can determine the outcome of a dispute.
25 July 2024
The examination practice for partial design applications in China differs significantly from that in other jurisdictions. Applicants seeking to protect partial design applications in China while claiming foreign priority are advised to study the discrepancies in examination practice to better navigate the terrain.
25 July 2024
Final regulations leave ambiguities around what will need to be translated, potentially placing a significant burden on brands.
23 July 2024
In the TTAB’s first decision in an appeal arising from an expungement proceeding, the board affirmed the USPTO director’s decision to cancel registrations for the mark SMARTLOCK for “components for air conditioning and cooling systems, namely, evaporative air coolers”.
22 July 2024
A new academic paper argues that Amazon has upended the US trademark system with little public recognition, and that questions about trademark law in the modern age need answering.
20 July 2024
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