UAE to join Madrid System for registration of trade marks

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the latest member state to join the Madrid System for the registration of international trade marks.

This means that as of 28 December 2021 trade mark applicants who apply for an international trade mark registration, or have an existing international trade mark registration under the Madrid System, can designate and therefore seek protection in that jurisdiction.

The accession of the UAE brings the number of member states to 109, and means that the Madrid System now covers 125 countries – including the European Union member states. The UAE follows Canada, Brazil, Malaysia, Trinidad and Tobago and Pakistan as the most recent countries to join the Madrid System.

The Madrid System (or the international system for trade mark registration) allows an applicant to request trade mark protection in one or more member states by filing a single application with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). There are many benefits to the Madrid System for businesses seeking trade mark protection in a large number of countries. 

If you’d like us to advise your business on the Madrid System or overseas trade mark filing strategy, please contact us.

BA LLB MIPLaw GAICD

Anita is a member of our trade marks team and has more than 10 years’ experience in trade mark clearance work, prosecution, oppositions and enforcement, both locally and internationally. She has also been involved in proceedings before the Australian Trade Marks Office and the Federal Court of Australia.