Bahrain and China have inaugurated a pioneering initiative, the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot program, aimed at accelerating patent examination and fostering innovation collaboration between the two nations. On May 1, 2024, the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) and the Bahrain Ministry for Industry and Commerce (MOIC) officially commenced their Memorandum of Understanding [...]
DOHA - The Qatari Ministry of Commerce and Industry has introduced new guidelines aimed at enhancing the validity and accreditation of Power of Attorney. These guidelines, effective immediately, are designed to streamline the process of submitting Power of Attorney to the Trademark and Patent Office. Key Instructions for Acceptance: Notary Seal and Authentication: All [...]
DOHA- The Intellectual Property Rights Protection Department of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Doha has issued Circular Number 2/2024, introducing a new directive on patent annuity fees. Applicants can now choose to defer the payment of annuity fees beyond the third year from the filing date or international filing date for PCT-national [...]
ISLAMABAD- Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have recently pledged to strengthen Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) enforcement and bilateral cooperation. In a meeting between Chairperson IPO-Pakistan, Farukh Amil, and Kyrgyzstan's Ambassador, Ulanbek Totuiaev, held in Islamabad, both parties emphasized the importance of robust enforcement for fostering innovation and economic growth. Ambassador Totuiaev proposed establishing Intellectual Property offices [...]
RIYADH –In a bid to streamline intellectual property management processes, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) has introduced a new procedure for handling rejected trademark applications. Previously, applicants facing rejection had two choices: amending the mark within a 10-day grace period or filing an appeal within 60 days. However, under the new policy, [...]
Riyadh— The GCC Patent Office, in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), has introduced the "WIPO Publish" search platform, marking a significant stride in facilitating access to patent information. This cutting-edge platform is designed to enable researchers both within the GCC and internationally to explore patents granted by the GCC Patent Office, [...]
The Argentine Trademark and Patent Office (INPI) has set the stage for a significant shake-up in the intellectual property sector. Effective December 1st, 2023, prepare for a game-changing increase in government fees. INPI has ramped up its fees by a staggering 400%. This move marks a critical point for businesses, innovators, and IP holders [...]
Riyadh— The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) has officially adopted the 12th edition of the Nice Classification, effective November 2, 2023. This move introduces substantial changes to the trademark application process, particularly in how applicants specify their goods or services. Under the new guidelines, the SAIP no longer accepts class headings. Instead, applicants [...]
Bahrain has taken proactive steps to potentially boost individual patent applications by reducing fees for specific patent-related services. Decision No. 67 of 2023, implemented by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, focuses on lowering charges associated with filing, examining, publishing, and granting patents for individual applicants. It's worth noting that, under the current directive, [...]
Riyadh— The Saudi Council of Ministers has recently greenlit crucial amendments to the Patents, Layout-Designs of Integrated Circuits, Plant Varieties, and Industrial Designs law. Effective as of September 25, 2023, through Royal Decree No. (M/45) dated 10/03/1445 AH, these modifications mark a milestone in Saudi Arabia's intellectual property landscape. The key changes are as [...]
