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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.
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.
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.
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.

Bangladesh - New Patent Act now in force
Bangladesh has enacted a new Patent Act, bringing substantial changes to its IP framework. This move is expected to modernize patent protection and align with global standards. Learn more about what this means for your IP strategy.

Guidelines following Uruguay's accession to the Patent Cooperation Treaty
Uruguay has officially joined the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), allowing for streamlined international patent applications. Discover what this change means for patent holders seeking protection in Uruguay.

Bahrain signs further Patent Prosecution Highway agreements
Bahrain has expanded its Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) network, offering faster examination for patent applications. Find out how this can benefit your global patent strategy.

Bahamas - New IP laws in force
The Bahamas has implemented new IP legislation, overhauling its trademark, patent, and design protection systems. Learn how this impacts your IP rights in the Caribbean.
Bahamas - New IP laws in force
As of 1 February 2025, new IP laws covering patents, trade marks, and copyright are in effect in the Bahamas. However, implementing regulations and official fees have yet to be finalised, leaving some uncertainty for rights holders. Stay tuned for further updates.
ARIPO - Amendments to law on patents, designs and utility models
ARIPO has updated its laws governing patents, designs, and utility models, introducing new filing requirements and fee structures. Stay ahead with the latest updates.
Kiribati – New IP laws currently under review
Kiribati is reviewing its IP legislation, potentially reshaping trademark, patent, and design protections. Discover what these changes could mean for your rights in the region.
ARIPO - New official fees for patent and design matters
ARIPO has introduced new official fees for patents and designs, impacting IP strategies across multiple jurisdictions. Find out what this means for your filings.
Saudi Arabia – Accession to International Design Registration Treaty
Saudi Arabia has joined the International Design Registration Treaty, making it easier to secure design rights. Learn what this means for your design portfolio.

Appointment of our IP expert to OAPI-centric committee
We are proud to announce that Isabelle MBOME from our affiliated office of Ekémé Lysaght SARL has been appointed as a member of the Scientific Committee of the Denis Ekani Intellectual Property Academy (APIDE).
Costa Rica – Validation of European patents
Costa Rica now recognises European patents, simplifying protection for inventors. Discover how this change impacts your patent strategy.

2024 AIPPI World Congress
Richard Stilwell recently represented Lysaght at AIPPI’s World Congress event in Hangzhou, marking the first time an international IP conference has been held in China.

Eurasian design system to enter into force in Turkmenistan
Turkmenistan will become the final member of the Eurasian Patent Organization (EAPO) to join the industrial design protection system. The Protocol will enter into force on 4 January 2025, providing streamlined regional design protection.
Myanmar – Patent and Utility Model applications can now be filed
Myanmar’s long-awaited Patent Law 2019 is now fully in effect, with the Intellectual Property Department officially accepting new patent and utility model applications from 31 October 2024. This marks a significant shift from the outdated “cautionary notice” system to a more comprehensive patent protection framework.