In the world of trademarks, time is of the essence. For brand owners, "Time Strategy" involves two dimensions: Speed of Securing a Filing Date (Priority) and Speed of Obtaining a Registration Certificate. The two routes perform very
Read MoreIn trademark strategy, "spending wisely" is the golden rule. It is a common misconception that the International Application (Madrid System) is always cheaper than National Applications. In reality, budget planning depends on your initial capital, the number of target countries, and your reserve for contingency fees.
Read MoreAfter confirming eligibility for the Madrid System, the next pivotal question is: "Where are your markets located?" Trademark strategy is not just about picking countries; it is about managing the rhythm of expansion and the allocation of resources.
Read MoreWhen planning a global trademark layout, applicants often weigh the "Madrid International Application" against "National Applications." However, before comparing fees or timelines, the most critical prerequisite is: Does the applicant qualify for the Madrid System? This is not merely a procedural step; it dictates the very feasibility of your strategic path.
Read MoreA trademark or service mark can be any word, a phrase, symbol, design, or a combination of these that identifies the goods or services belonging to a specific company as well as recognizing the company’s ownership of the brand.
Read MoreAlthough trademark search is not mandatory, but it is recommended to conduct a pre-filing search before filing an application. In most cases, conducting pre-filing trademark searches is an important first step in any trademark registration, as it helps to avoid unintended infringement of third-party trademark rights.
Read MoreThe Hong Kong Intellectual Property Department (IPD) has introduced a major administrative reform in 2026! This new policy centers on two core pillars: first, the full implementation of electronic filing (E-filing) for statutory declarations and affidavits to significantly boost processing efficiency; second, a strict requirement that trademark agents must possess a physical operational address in Hong Kong to crack down on offshore "ghost" agencies. Please ensure that your overseas trademark agent complies with these new regulations to avoid affecting your brand rights!
Read MoreIndonesia’s latest trademark examination regulations (Regulation No. 5 of 2026) came into force on 23 February 2026. Provided there are no procedural issues, the overall examination period can be reduced to as short as 6 months. This measure significantly shortens the lengthy examination period of approximately 18 to 36 months associated with the traditional route. The key to expediting the examination process lies in ensuring that application documents are complete and free from defects, and in making maximum use of the electronic filing system (DJKI) to accelerate the initial formal examination (which is typically completed within 1–2 months).
Read MoreOn 11 March 2026, the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) released a major update to its Trade Mark Practice Guidelines. These revisions specifically target Sections 2.7, 2.8, and 4 within the "Absolute Grounds - General" chapter.
Read MoreThe most significant announcement in Vietnam's trademark and intellectual property sector for 2026 is the official implementation of the 2025 Amended Intellectual Property Law (Law No. 131/2025/QH15) on April 1, 2026. This amendment represents Vietnam's most extensive legal reform in recent years, aimed at aligning domestic laws with international standards such as the CPTPP and EVFTA. This reform significantly accelerates the registration process and introduces a “Fast-track Examination” option for the first time.
Read MoreThe UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) introduced new fee schedules on 1 April 2026, increasing official fees for patents, trade marks and designs. This move is intended to address inflation and cover the costs of providing services; trade mark fees, in particular, have been adjusted for the first time since 1998.
Read MoreOn 18 March 2026, the Argentine National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) issued Resolution No. 75/2026, announcing a comprehensive increase in all intellectual property fees effective from 1 April 2026, and introducing a new fee structure – the “Industrial Property Tariff Unit” (“UMAPI”) - a new calculation unit that is adjusted monthly in line with inflation. This adjustment applies to all trademark applications, registrations and related procedures, and is designed to be linked to the inflation rate, meaning that the operational costs associated with trademarks will rise significantly.
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