Qatar has formally implemented the 13th edition of the Nice Classification, and the Trademark Office has confirmed that all classes under this updated framework are now open for registration. This development indicates that Class 33, which was previously subject to restrictions, is now expected to be accepted for trademark filings. The update brings Qatar’s trademark […]

Overview The United Arab Emirates Trademark Office has amended the requirements for trademark renewals and recordals, including assignments, licences, and changes of name or address. These updates are intended to simplify procedures and reduce documentation requirements for trademark holders and their representatives. Key Change: Registration Certificate No Longer Required Under the updated practice, a copy […]

The Egyptian Intellectual Property Authority has issued Decisions No. 64 and 65 of 2026, introducing revisions to official fees applicable to intellectual property services, along with the launch of new service offerings. These changes came into effect on 05 April 2026 and reflect a broader effort to modernize administrative services and enhance access to intellectual […]

Introduction Under US trademark law, rights in a mark are fundamentally grounded in actual use—not mere creation, conception, or registration. A trademark or service mark must be actively used in commerce to identify and distinguish the source of goods or services before legal protection attaches. This principle, codified in the Lanham Act (15 U.S.C. §§ […]

Qatar has introduced an exceptional and temporary procedure to ease POA submission requirements for trademark applications. Under this arrangement, applicants may file either with a copy of the POA legalized up to the Qatari Consulate or without submitting a POA at the time of filing, provided that an undertaking is included. The fully legalized original […]

The United Arab Emirates has introduced a temporary relief measure to support trademark applicants impacted by courier delays and logistical challenges. While the standard deadline for submitting a legalized Power of Attorney (POA) remains 90 days from the filing date, applicants can now request a one-time 30-day extension by submitting a formal request, without any […]

The United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office has announced a planned increase of its official fees covering trademarks, patents, and designs. The updated fee structure, reflecting an average increase of around 25%, is expected to take effect on April 1, 2026, subject to parliamentary approval. The current fees will remain applicable until March 31, 2026. Applicants […]

WIPO Madrid v. National Route: Which One for International Trademark Registration? One of the most common questions businesses ask today is: “How do I register my trademark globally?” In an era driven by e-commerce, cross-border trade, and globally integrated supply chains, protecting your brand internationally is no longer optional—it is a strategic necessity. However, a […]