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Republic of Moldova joins the European Patent Organisation
On 1 June 2026, the Republic of Moldova became the 40th member state of the European Patent Organisation (EPO). From that date, European patent applications automatically designate Moldova, removing the need to pay a separate validation fee for applications filed on or after that date, including relevant PCT applications.
Bahamas - The Bahamas accedes to the PCT
The Bahamas has acceded to the PCT, which will take effect from 19 August 2026. Procedural requirements are not yet confirmed, but are expected largely to follow standard PCT practice. Applicants should plan filings early and monitor updates to avoid missing future deadlines once confirmed.
Cape Verde approves new Industrial Property Code
Learn how Cape Verde’s new Industrial Property Code, effective 2 June 2026, modernises IP law, expands trade mark and design protection and strengthens enforcement.
Argentina modernises its patent system: What applicants need to know
Argentina has taken a significant step towards aligning its patent system with international standards, with the repeal of long-standing restrictions on pharmaceutical patentability. For applicants, this represents a meaningful shift, reopening categories of protection that have effectively been closed for over a decade.
Sierra Leone - Trade Marks Regulations 2024 now officially in force
Sierra Leone’s Trade Marks Regulations 2024 are now officially in effect, introducing formal procedures for filings, defined timelines, Madrid Protocol processes, and updated fees to modernise and streamline national trade mark practice.
ARIPO joins Global PPH pilot
From 6 January 2026, ARIPO became part of the Global Patent Prosecution Highway (GPPH). For applicants, this means faster examination, lower prosecution costs, and greater flexibility in coordinating global patent strategies. Now is a good time to review ARIPO filings, identify eligible positive work products, and consider using the GPPH to accelerate prosecution. Lysaght can advise on eligibility and next steps.
Vietnam's 2025 Amended IP Law: Faster Protection, Stronger Enforcement and AI Clarity from April 2026
Vietnam’s National Assembly has approved significant amendments to the Law on Intellectual Property. Effective 1 April 2026, the reforms will modernise and streamline Vietnam’s IP system, introducing faster examination timelines, broader protection for digital innovation and enhanced enforcement tools.
Jersey - Direct, Independent Trade Mark Applications and Madrid Protocol Accession
From mid‑2026, Jersey will adopt a primary trade mark register and Madrid Protocol membership, giving businesses independent, globally aligned trade mark protection.
Jersey's New IP Landscape: International Treaty Extensions and a Modernised Framework
Jersey modernises its IP framework with major treaty extensions and new systems for trade marks, patents and designs. Learn what this means for rights holders
UK IPO fees due to increase from 1 April 2026
The UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO) has announced a forthcoming increase in its official fees across its patent, trade mark, and registered design services. Read on for details.
Celebrating 80 Years of Excellence: A Legacy Built on Innovation, Expertise and Global Impact
2026 is a momentous year in the history of Lysaght, as we celebrate our 80th anniversary this year. Learn about our story, from inception to the present day.
Supporting charities, both near and far
From Charity Day fundraising to international outreach, Lysaght celebrates a year of supporting community charities in Jersey and Cameroon.
Tanzania: ARIPO Trade Mark Designations Confirmed Invalid - National Filings Now Required
Tanzania’s Court of Appeal confirms ARIPO trade mark designations are invalid, requiring brand owners to rely on national trade mark filings.
Grenada joins the Madrid Protocol for International Trade Mark Registration
Grenada joins the Madrid Protocol on 15 March 2026, enabling streamlined international trade mark registration and expanded global protection for businesses
Zambia: New Trade Marks Act in Force - Key Changes for Brand Owners
Zambia’s newly-promulgated 2023 Trade Marks Act modernizes IP protection, with service marks and multi‑class filings now possible, Madrid Protocol alignment, and stronger enforceability.
Nepal: Updated deadlines for pending and published trade mark applications (December 2025 notice)
A further official notification concerning trade mark applications and registrations in Nepal has been issued, which affects all pending and published trade mark applications. We summarise the required actions.
Maldives – Ratification of the Trademark Act
The Maldives is on the brink of transforming its trade mark landscape. With legislation due to take effect in 2026, the country will move from common-law publication to a formal registration system for the first time in its history.
Qatar - Applications for Industrial Designs and Models can now be filed
The Intellectual Property Rights Protection Department in Qatar has officially begun accepting applications for industrial designs and models. Read our article to find out more.
Maldives prepares for a new era of trade mark protection in 2026
The Maldives is on the brink of transforming its trade mark landscape. With legislation due to take effect in 2026, the country will move from common-law publication to a formal registration system for the first time in its history.
Nepal - Suspension of prior notice issued by the Department of Industry
A recent official notification concerning trade mark applications and registrations in Nepal, which required action to be taken to file outstanding documents, has now been suspended until further notice.