Singapore: IPOS decision illustrates importance of pleadings and evidence in trade mark opposition proceedings

In the trademark opposition decision of Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company v. YITAI (SHANGHAI) PLASTIC CO., LTD. [2020] SGIPOS 14, the opponent, an American company in the business of manufacturing pipes and fittings, launched a trademark opposition action against the applicant, a China company competing in the same market.

While the opposition action did succeed on one out of three grounds of opposition, the hearing officer at the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore issued certain comments on the manner of the opponent's pleadings and evidence, which serve as a timely reminder for parties in trademark opposition proceedings.