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.
While the Mexican trademark system has evolved to better support rights holders, difficulties persist when it comes to pursuing oppositions. The framework offers a swift timeframe and the opportunity for appeal, but the risk of invalidation challenges should not be overlooked.
14 June 2024
After a legislative overhaul in 2019, trademark practitioners and brand owners have faced challenges with Canada’s new trademark regime. While most have successfully adapted, amendments to the Québec Charter of French Language coming into effect June 2025 and structural shifts at the CIPO could present further hurdles for both rights holders and the courts.
14 June 2024
Reforms to the IP rights system aim to modernise and streamline administrative processes – particularly trademark registration. Practical implications for plaintiffs are still unfolding, and ongoing evaluation will determine whether further adjustments are needed to fulfil the original 2018 legislation’s original objectives.
14 June 2024
In a "welcome" decision, the US Supreme Court has ruled that the USPTO’s refusal of the trademark TRUMP TOO SMALL does not violate the First Amendment.
13 June 2024
A potential new government may bring closer ties with the European Union and be more open to lobbying, say trademark professionals.
12 June 2024
The anti-monopoly authority has considered a range of criteria based on competition law, which may be seen as a test to establish whether unfair competition has occurred.
12 June 2024
In our latest round-up, we look at Matter Labs abandoning the ZK trademark after a crypto backlash, Abion acquiring Lane IP, and much more.
07 June 2024
A design and standard character mark infringement dispute has highlighted the validity of a declaration as evidence. While the defendant argued abuse of discretion by the PTAB, the Federal Circuit disagreed and supported a declaration from the director of the opposing company as sufficient for refusal to register.
06 June 2024
Claudia Sheinbaum has won the race to become the next president of Mexico, with commentators hoping she brings a new approach to IP enforcement.
05 June 2024
In this update, we look at the Slovenian and Portuguese IP offices partnering up, the IP Office of Singapore launching a podcast series, and much more.
05 June 2024
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