News

New webinar series: navigating the challenges of IP enforcement in Africa
The Africa IP SME Helpdesk is organising a webinar series on navigating the challenges of IP enforcement in Africa.

Ed Sheeran copyright battle ends - Game of Thrones author joins class action lawsuit against OpenAI
This week in the news, we look at two copyright cases involving Ed Sheeran and OpenAI.

TRAI Proposed Concurrent PLI Scheme to Boost Innovation and Promote Resident IPRs
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed the implementation of a "concurrent Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme" aimed at encouraging manufacturing activities related to components and sub-assemblies in collaboration with industry players.

Global Innovation Index 2023 Science and Technology Clusters: India Experienced A Strong S&T Output Growth
The Global Innovation Index (GII) assesses and ranks the innovative capabilities of countries and economies worldwide on an annual basis. According to the 2023 report, four clusters located in India experienced a strong science and technology (S&T) output growth.

Global Innovation Index 2023 Science and Technology Clusters: Brazil with São Paulo is the sole top 100 S&T cluster in Latin America
The Global Innovation Index (GII) is an annual assessment that evaluates and ranks the innovation capacities of countries and economies across the globe. According to the Index, Brazil with São Paulo, is the sole top 100 science and technology (S&T) cluster in Latin America.

Global Innovation Index 2023 Science and Technology Clusters: Tokyo-Yokohama Tops Ranking; China Now Home to Greatest Number
The Global Innovation Index (GII) ranks countries and economies based on their innovative capacity each year and identifies local areas with significant concentrations of world-leading science and technology activity.

EC Announces: New Measures to Boost the Competitiveness and Resilience of SMEs in Europe
The European Commission is taking a series of actions to cater to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the current economic climate.

New Area on the EPO Website for Non-Experts: "Are You New to Patents?"
The European Patent Office (EPO) has introduced a completely new section on epo.org as part of the recent website redesignT ake a look: https://www.epo.org/en/new-to-patents

WIPO Global IP perception survey 2023: Latin American and Caribbean states showed high awareness index scores
World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) has published a groundbreaking survey that explores awareness and attitudes towards intellectual property (IP) rights.

New Survey on the Development of the Codes of Practice on Industry-Academia Co-Creation and Citizens’ Engagement
The European Commission (EC) is inviting stakeholders to contribute their feedback on two draft documents: the draft Code of practice on industry-academia co-creation for knowledge valorisation and the draft Code of practice on citizens’ engagement for knowledge valorisation.

New biennial work plan between EPO and Mexican Institute of Industrial Property
On September 14, the President of the European Patent Office (EPO), António Campinos, had a meeting in Mexico City with the Director General of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI), José Sánchez Pérez.

Dua Lipa faces copyright lawsuit – Advocate General’s Opinion in Case C-361/22
This week, we look at a copyright dispute involving Dua Lipa and at the Advocate General’s Opinion in Case INDITEX v. Buongiorno.

Uruguay to become a member of PCT at the end of 2023
It is expected that Uruguay will become a contracting state of the Patent Cooperation Treaty by the end of 2023.

WIPO Young Experts Program: Growing Future Global IP Leaders
Apply for World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) "Young Experts Program" (YEP)!

WIPO Global IP Perception Survey 2023: India Demonstrates Lower Awareness Index Score
World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) has published a groundbreaking survey that explores awareness and attitudes towards intellectual property (IP) rights.

Protecting your innovative ideas in Europe before your Latin America journey: a collaboration with the European IP Helpdesk and ENRICH in LAC
The Latin America and the European IP Helpdesk have both worked with ENRICH LAC to collaborate on a video on the Intellectual Property landscape in Europe.

The impact of commercialisation strategies and benefits for EU SMEs investing in sub-Saharan Africa: measuring the effect of IP practices
The Africa IP SME Helpdesk is organising a webinar entitled ‘The impact of commercialisation strategies and benefits for SMEs investing in Africa: measuring the effect of IP practices’.

G20 Published: New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration
The Group of Twenty (G20) has recently published a declaration under the theme ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ mainly focusing on strong and sustainable growth, accelerating progress on sustainable development goals, a green development pact, and reinvigorating multilateralism.

Intellectual Property (IP) tips for the pharmaceutical market in South-East Asia (SEA) - Part 1
Overview of the pharmaceutical market in SEA: potential and challenges
Out Now: New Infographic on Strategic Novelties in Horizon Europe with Regard to Exploitation
Our new infographic looks at the major updates and strategic novelties in Horizon Europe concerning exploitation.

Elon Musk’s X faces copyright lawsuit – Tous wins against an application for declaration of invalidity
In the second week after the summer break, we continue to comment on the IP cases that took place during the summer. This week, we look at a copyright case involving Elon Musk’s social network X, and a ruling from the General Court involving the jewellery company Tous.
Myanmar: Copyright Law anticipated to come into force in October 2023
On 7 August 2023, the Myanmar Intellectual Property Department (MIPD) announced that the Copyright Law 2019 (“Copyright Law”) will come into force in October 2023.
Thai-EU trade talks to start next week
Thailand is preparing to embark on talks regarding a free-trade agreement with the EU (Thai-EU FTA) next week, with the aim of concluding the deal within two years.
PH eyes to up ranking in global innovation report by ‘28
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. aims to raise the country’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index (GII) report of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) by the end of his term in 2028.
Recent Changes from Cambodia’s Trade Mark Office
We have reviewed two recent announcements from Cambodia’s trade mark office to assess the implications for brand owners.

Protecting slogans as EU trade marks
Key points you should know if you are planning to register slogans or promotional messages as trade marks.

Just Released: New Infographic and Fact Sheet on IP Valuation
European IP Helpdesk team has recently published a new infographic on explaining the important aspects of the IP Valuation using different methods and approaches.

EUIPO Announces: The Winners of DesignEuropa Awards 2023
The DesignEuropa Awards recognize outstanding design achievements within the community of Registered Community Design holders. European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has just announced the winners of the 2023 edition during a ceremony held in Berlin.

Prada vs RADA - Nike wins eyewear logo battle against Multiópticas
The summer is coming to an end… but luckily, we are back with more IP news to make the journey more enjoyable! This week, we look at the latest trade mark news with two rulings from the EU’s General Court.
Myanmar: New Customs Rules on Trade Marks to prevent counterfeit goods
On July 14, 2023, through Notification No. 50/2023, the Ministry of Planning and Finance introduced the Customs Rules pertaining to trade marks.

Income generated through the utilization of IP is exempt from the IRAE tax in Uruguay
In Uruguay, income derived from the use of intellectual property and other intangible assets are exempt from Tax on the Rents and Activities in Uruguay (IRAE).

INPI releases a Technical Note regarding the term "Cachaça" in Geographical Indications
On 31 August, the Permanent Committee for the Improvement of Procedures and Examination Guidelines for Trademarks, Industrial Designs, and Geographical Indications (CPAPD) published a Technical Note regarding the term "Cachaça" in Geographical Indications.

New agreement between Chile and Brazil to promote the use of the PCT
National Institute of Industrial Property Ministry of Economy (INAPI) signed a cooperation agreement with the National Institute of Industrial Property of Brazil (INPI) to promote the use of the PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) system.
Vietnam: New decree details certain provisions under Vietnam's amended intellectual property law
On 23 August 2023, the Vietnamese Government promulgated Decree No. 65/2023/ND-CP ("Decree 65"), which provides guidelines for implementing specific aspects of the Vietnamese Intellectual Property (IP) Law 2022 ("2022 IP Law") on establishing and safeguarding industrial property rights (IPR).
Cambodia Tightens Trademark Rules with Multiple-Class and Affidavit Stipulations
Cambodia recently tightened its trademark procedures by restricting the filing of separate single-class applications for a mark covering multiple classes, and tightening the deadline for filing affidavits of use or non-use.
New Decree Guides Vietnam’s IP Law on Industrial Property Rights
On August 23, 2023, the Vietnamese government issued Decree No. 65/2023/ND-CP detailing and guiding the implementation of some articles of the 2022 Intellectual Property Law with respect to the establishment and protection of industrial property rights (“Decree 65”).

Applications Are Open for European Prize for Women Innovators
For the 2023-2024 edition, the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the European Institute for Innovation & Technology (EIT) have collaborated to enhance and expand the European Prize for Women Innovators.

Every New Business Owner in India Needs To Be Aware of These Four Trademark Facts
Trademarks are essential to every startup, thus every effort should be made to safeguard them from infringement of intellectual property rights or unauthorised use.

Indian Trademark Law: Selling Perfume Samples Commercially is an Unfair Business Practise
An important legal precedent pertaining to the sale of perfume testers in India is highlighted by the recent case of Coty Germany GmbH v. Xeryus Retail Private Limited in the Delhi High Court.

WIPO Announces: Applications for the WIPO Global Health Innovation Fellowship Are Now Open
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has announced a call for applications for the WIPO Global Health Innovation Fellowships.
The Changing Nature of Fighting Fakes in Southeast Asia
Counterfeiting activities have been a global concern for many decades, and the problem has not yet gone away despite persistent efforts to suppress it.
Cambodia finalizes key draft IP policy
This year saw the National Committee for Intellectual Property Rights (NCIPR) finalize a key draft IP policy 2023-28 for submission to the Council of Ministers, according to minister and NCIPR chairman Pan Sorasak.
Vietnam reduces IP filing fee for pandemic-affected businesses, individual
On June 29, 2023, Vietnam’s Minister of Finance issued Circular No. 44/2023/TT-BTC which reduces the collection rates for 36 fees and charges in the country from 10 to 50 percent.

The Evolution of Research Collaboration Between the EU and India
The research collaboration between the European Union (EU) and India is undergoing a process of evolution and development.
ASEAN Intellectual Property Register to officially launch
SEMARANG, 20 August 2023 – Today, ASEAN, in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), launched the ASEAN Intellectual Property (IP) Register.

SMEs investing in Egypt and the role of intellectual property
The Africa IP SME Helpdesk is organising a webinar entitled ‘Investing in Egypt: the role of intellectual property’.
Thailand: Significant advancement in court procedures in the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court
With the aim to modernize court procedures, the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court ("CIPIT Court") has recently announced the new Rules for Intellectual Property and International Trade Cases B.E. 2566 (2023) ("Rules") to replace the old regulation established in 1997.

Video with Sergio Rubio from the Spanish CoC in Mexico during Exphotel 2023
This video introduces the bilateral CoC role in helping SMEs settle in Mexico and their opinion on our free EU-funded services.
EPO Publishes: Unitary Patent Dashboard
The European Patent Office (EPO) has recently launched a dashboard that provides valuable insights into the adoption and popularity of the Unitary Patent system, which was introduced on 1 June 2023.

Advocate General’s Opinion in Case C-382/21 P – The battle for “Taco Tuesday” trade mark is over
In the last week before the summer break, we look at the Advocate General’s Opinion in Case C-382/21 P and at the end of a trade mark dispute involving taco restaurant chains.

Contemporary Challenges and Threats to Intellectual Property Rights in India
The emergence of new technologies and the digital age have presented unique challenges to the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights (IPRs) especially in certain areas such as 3D printing, artificial intelligence and spatial computing.

INAPI's new green patent program reducing average processing time
As was the case before with INPI Brazil, INAPI Chile has decided to follow the Brazilian path in order to reduce the patent process for green inventions by up to a third.

Delhi High Court Dismissed PepsiCo's Appeal Against the Revocation of the Patent Cover
The Delhi High Court rejected PepsiCo Inc's appeal against the revocation of a patent for a potato variety exclusively grown for their Lay's potato chips.

2023 WIPO Global Awards for SMEs: A Mexican SME is among the winners
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has recently announced the results of its 2023 competition and this year small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from China, France, Kenya, Mexico, Singapore, and Slovenia are the winners of the second edition of the annual competition.

Ausonia (EVAX) loses another battle against 'eva intima' – Mélenchon and LFI condemned for infringement of a street artist’s copyright
This week, we look at a recent decision from the General Court involving the Spanish company Ausonia, and a copyright infringement case involving political leader Mélenchon.

New WIPO Report on IPOs and Sustainable Innovation: India Takes A Number of Steps
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has recently released a report “Intellectual Property Offices and Sustainable Innovation - Implementing the SDGs in National Intellectual Property Systems” to identify examples of good practice among IP offices in supporting the achievement of SDGs.

New agreement between INAPI Chile and the EPO: PPH and more
The EPO establishes bilateral cooperation partnerships with non-member states of the EPC (technical cooperation, reinforced cooperation, and validation) to make the global patent system more efficient and better suited to user needs.

New WIPO Report on sustainable innovation: Latin American IPOs take serious actions
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has recently released a report “Intellectual Property Offices and Sustainable Innovation - Implementing the SDGs in National Intellectual Property Systems” to identify examples of good practice among IP offices in supporting the achievement of SDGs.
EU- India Agreement on Geographical Indications (GIs) - a means to FastTrack GI registrations ?
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Patenting Business methods and software solutions in India - an important decision by the Delhi High Court
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Divisional Patents – A practical and strategical means to test the unity of invention for inventors and SMEs
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New Manual on Types of TMs and distinctiveness of TMs in Absolute grounds in some CARIFORUM IP Offices
This publication provides guidance for trade mark applicants and examiners on types of marks and assessing the distinctiveness of trade marks in the examination of absolute grounds.

IP in the e-commerce sector in Latin America (Pt. 2)
As it was previously mentioned in Part I of this series on the protection of your IP on e-commerce platforms in Latin America, we will now look deeper into the specific issues of these platforms, with a quick guide on how to ensure that IP rights are best protected when doing business online in Lati
Viet Nam to work with WIPO to develop efficient global intellectual property ecosystem
GENEVA — Việt Nam will continue to work with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) to develop an inclusive, balanced, and efficient global intellectual property ecosystem that enables innovation and creativity for the benefit of all.

Barbie vs Burberry - Twitter threatens to sue Meta - Apple loses in 4G essential patent battle
This week, a trade mark dispute between Barbie and Burberry, and two intellectual property news involving giant tech companies Apple and Meta.
ASEAN businesses to get funding under WIPO-Singapore ASEAN Mediation Programme
Businesses in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) can now benefit from subsidized mediation to resolve intellectual property or technology disputes under the new WIPO-Singapore ASEAN Mediation Programme (AMP).
2023 Edition of the European Innovation Scoreboard Published by the European Commission
On 6 July 2023, European Commission published 2023 edition of the European Innovation Scoreboard and the bi-yearly edition of the Regional Innovation Scoreboard. Both Scoreboards report a substantial improvement in the overall innovation performance.

New Article From European IP Helpdesk Ambassador: How Small Businesses Can Master Intellectual Property in 5 Steps
European IP Helpdesk Ambassador Christina Deyl who works as Internationalisation Adviser in Hessen Trade & Invest GmbH, has recently published an article “How Small Businesses Can Master Intellectual Property in 5 Steps” sharing her insights on how to make the most of your intellectual property.

EPO Announces The Winners of The European Inventor Award and Young Inventors Prize 2023
The European Patent Office (EPO) has recently announced the winners of the European Inventor Award 2023. The winners were unveiled during a virtual ceremony held in Valencia.

Green trade marks
A focus on the filing of “green” trade marks and on the risks of greenwashing.
New Definition of Industrial Design in Vietnam’s Amended IP Law Needs Clarification
The amended IP Law adopted by the National Assembly of Vietnam on June 16, 2022, which took effect on January 1, 2023, revises the definition of an industrial design, which had been unaltered since the introduction of the first IP Law in 2005.

EC Publishes: First Biennial Report On the Implementation of the Global Approach to R&I
European Commission has released a report that provides an overview of the progress made in implementing the EU strategy for international cooperation in research and innovation.

Just Released: Annual Report on Performance of the European SMEs
European Commission just published the annual report evaluating the performance of the European small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The report provides a concise summary of the size, structure, and significance of SMEs to the European economy.

EPO and EIC Signed Letter of Intent To Strengthen Their Collaboration
The European Patent Office (EPO) and the European Innovation Council (EIC) signed a letter of intent to deepen their cooperation by jointly supporting the development of breakthrough technologies and the innovation ecosystem in Europe.

IP in the e-commerce sector in Latin America (pt.1) - Europe
Given the rise in market share occupied by e-commerce, and the relevance of IP infringement taking place on these platforms, the major players in the sector have all been forced to adapt and take measures to try and curtail the phenomena.
Cooperatives in the Philippines get IP protection
The Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) have partnered to strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights for cooperatives,...
Thailand: New Rules for Intellectual Property and International Trade
The novel Rules is to enhance the efficiency and fairness of the Court's procedures.
IPOPHL, NBDB to promote copyright in regions
The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) has started an exciting chapter in its partnership with the National Book Development Board (NBDB) as IPOPHL will now be bringing copyright awareness to the NBDB’s biggest local book festivals.

OpenAI sued for copyright infringement – Lana del Rey settling plagiarism dispute
This week, we look at two copyright cases involving OpenAI and Lana del Rey.

Suspension of trademark procedures finally possible in China
CNIPA has issued the Regulation on Trademark Review and Adjudication for examiners (Regulation) The Regulation finally allows for suspension of trademark procedures.

European IP Helpdesk & EEN Ambassadors Summer Training
Joining forces with the European Patent Office (EPO), European IP Helpdesk team has organised a two-day training session for the European IP Helpdesk Ambassadors, covering various aspects related to intellectual property (IP).

Indecopi Peru reduces 25% the trade mark registration fee for micro and small companies
Indecopi has just announced that small and micro companies willing to register their trade marks in Peru will see a reduction of 25%.
Philippine group lauds passing of house bill to call for changes to the IP code
According to the most recent YouGov consumer polls commissioned by the Coalition Against Piracy (CAP), the Philippines will significantly profit from imposing site blocking to combat piracy due to the thriving PHP1.60 trillion creative industry, a major contributor to the nation’s economy.
MIP: Securing Patents for AI in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia has experienced a significant increase in foreign investment, which has not only brought innovation but also raised questions about protecting such innovation.

Kangra Tea Registered for GI Tag with European Union
Himachal Pradesh's Kangra tea, known for quality, unique aroma, and a tinge of fruity flavor, has been registered as a protected Geographical Indication (GI) with the European Union (EU).
Draft intellectual property policy set for Cabinet
This year has seen the National Committee for Intellectual Property Rights (NCIPR) finalise a significant draft IP policy 2023-28 for submission to the Council of Ministers, as stated by minister and NCIPR chairman Pan Sorasak.
IPOPHL, CDA join hands to help cooperatives protect their IP assets
The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) have joined hands to reinforce the protection of intellectual property (IP) rights for cooperatives.

DINAPI Paraguay to formalise the registration of sound marks thanks to OSN
The Paraguayan IP Office (Dirección General de Propiedad Intelectual - DINAPI), initiates a cooperation agreement with the National Symphony Orchestra (OSN), to formalise the registration of sound marks in Paraguay.
Public, private partners under ACIP meet to renew commitments and strengthen collaboration
The Advisory Council on Intellectual Property (ACIP), chaired by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), held its second quarter meeting on 20 June 2023 to expand its collaborative activities,...
Intellectual Property and E-Commerce in India (Part 2)
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Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023: Indian Ecosystems Continue to Rise
The Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2023 (GSER 2023) is a highly regarded publication that offers a detailed assessment of the global startup landscape. The Indian startup ecosystems are experiencing notable growth, as highlighted in the GSER 2023.

Hero Cycle Trademark Infringement Dispute: High Court Calls for Rapid Trial
The Patna High Court has taken noteworthy measures to expedite the trial process in a longstanding trademark infringement case involving Hero Cycle Limited and Hero Ecotech Limited.
Ministry of Commerce reinforce IP rights laws
The Ministry of Commerce’s Department of Intellectual Property (IP) Rights has recorded a significant increase in domestic and international brand registrations, totaling 120,000 alongside seven Geographical Indication (GI) brands.

EPO and Peru IP Office make their PPH fast-track programme permanent
Thanks to the PPH, a faster response would be obtained from said entities, reducing the duplication of efforts, time, and processing costs to study the same patent application.
EPO Releases Report on Quantum Simulation Technologies
The EPO takes a deep dive into quantum simulation technologies of the second generation in new report.
Brand owners, online platforms to enhance e-commerce MoU after 2nd successful year
Signatory brand owners and e-commerce platforms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to curb counterfeiting and piracy online moved to enhance the agreement after its second solid year of successfully running against infringers.

Hermès secures another win in MetaBirkins case – Cattelan’s banana not infringing copyright
This week, an update on the MetaBirkins saga, and artist Maurizio Cattelan fending off a copyright infringement lawsuit over his world-famous banana.

EIC and EIT Launch New Prize for Women Innovators
The European Prize for Women Innovators will spotlight women's groundbreaking innovations, underlining the central role of women as tech and climate leaders, inspiring people of all ages.

EUIPO Guidelines for Trade Marks & Designs Now Available in 23 Languages
The EUIPO Guidelines reflect current trade mark and design practices and are aimed at helping users and staff in charge of the various procedures.
Recent Copyright and Patent Cases Signal Shift in Vietnam’s IP Regime
April and May witnessed intriguing developments within Vietnam’s intellectual property community. On the legislation side, of particular note was the issuance of Decree No. 17/2023/ND-CP on April 26, coinciding with World IP Day.