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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.
Continuity and commitment: Michelle’s 50 years at Lysaght
In July this year, our colleague and friend Michelle Boyes celebrated 50 years of working at Lysaght. Continuity and stability are at the heart of what clients value, and Michelle’s 50 years stand as an extraordinary example of that.
Understanding the nuances of patent annuity payments around the world
The payment of patent renewal fees is critical to ensure that global patent protection is maintained, but the requirements and practices differ widely across jurisdictions of the world. Our guide takes you through the key points to note pertaining to the payment of these fees.
AIPPI 2025 World Congress – Yokohama
Richard Stilwell recently represented Lysaght at the AIPPI 2025 World Congress in Yokohama, Japan.
CITMA Paralegal Conference 2025 - London
Tatiana Despres and Zoë Molloy recently attended the CITMA Paralegal Conference in London, and enjoyed the opportunity to learn about issues of particular relevance to their role as paralegals, as well as to meet and network with peers and industry experts.
Kirsten Ozouf joins the team!
Kirsten has recently joined the Lysaght team, bringing with her some valuable prior IP experience. Kirsten is now managing a diverse portfolio of countries in the Trade Mark Department.
Nepal - Procedural updates concerning trade mark cases – Immediate action required
There have been some important procedural updates concerning trade mark applications and registrations in Nepal, following a notice issued by the Department of Industries of Nepal (“DOI”) on 19 August 2025, and subsequent clarifications received from Registry officials.
We summarise the key developments and recommended actions.
Tanzania introduces mandatory trade mark recordal for imported goods
Tanzania has announced the implementation of a mandatory trade mark recordal system for all goods imported into mainland Tanzania. This system, set to take effect on 1 December 2025, mirrors similar initiatives in other jurisdictions, most notably its neighbour Kenya’s Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) recordal regime.
Zanzibar: Significant fee increases for IP services now in effect
Zanzibar has increased IP fees by up to 300%, effective 11 August 2025. Changes apply retrospectively to pending and new applications. Find out what steps to take now.
Bermuda finally implements new Trade Marks Act 2023
We are pleased to announce that the new Trade Marks Act 2023 has finally come into force on 01 August 2025. Read our article for more details.
Implementation of new Intellectual Property Regulations in the Bahamas
The implementing regulations and official fee schedules accompanying the recently-enacted intellectual property legislation in the Bahamas have finally now been published, so bringing some clarity to various practical issues which were introduced by the new IP laws.
How to protect your brand in an age of trade wars
Amid escalating trade tensions and shifting global alliances, businesses are reassessing their trade mark strategies. With China strengthening ties in Brazil and Africa and the U.S. imposing new tariffs, it's critical to align trade mark portfolios with evolving supply chains.
The clock is ticking on your 20-year patent: 5 steps to maximise its value while you can
A patent offers a powerful but time-limited commercial advantage. With a 20-year window to capitalise on your invention, strategic action is essential. This article outlines five key ways to ensure your patent works harder for your business, from international expansion to licensing, enforcement, and visibility.
El Salvador - New IP law now in force
As we previously reported, a new Intellectual Property Law was approved in El Salvador on 8 August 2024. We have just ascertained that this new law came into effect on 17 February 2025.
Mauritius accedes to ARIPO Harare Protocol: Implications for Patents, Utility Models and Industrial Designs
Effective 27 August 2025, the Republic of Mauritius will become the 21st contracting state to the ARIPO Harare Protocol, so enabling applicants to designate Mauritius in regional applications for patents, utility models, and industrial designs. This development streamlines IP protection in Mauritius, as well as allowing Mauritian residents to file directly with ARIPO.
Lysaght is attending the INTA 2025 in San Diego
Lysaght is ably represented at the 2025 INTA conference in San Diego by Richard Stilwell and Tim Noel of our Board of Directors. A packed event every year, the INTA gives us a great opportunity to connect with familiar faces, and to make introduction to new professional contacts alike, and both Richard and Tim are looking forward to engaging with our peers in the global IP industry at the conference.
Brazil – Increased official fees and procedural matters coming into force for IP matters
On 9 May 2025, the Brazilian Patent and Trademark Office (BPTO) announced a new official fee schedule for IP, effective from 7 August 2025. This marks the first comprehensive update to official fees since 2012, reflecting Brazil's efforts to modernize its IP infrastructure.
Revisions to Directive on the legal protection of EU Designs
The EU has introduced significant changes to its design protection framework. These updates aim to streamline registration processes and strengthen protections for innovative designs. Find out how these changes could impact your design rights.