News Archive
Scroll through for a list of our articles in this area.
Revisions to Directive on the legal protection of EU Designs
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.
Bermuda: Continued delays to enforcement of new Trade Mark Act
The enforcement date for Bermuda’s new Trade Mark Act has been pushed back again, with implementation now expected in May or later. Until then, the old legislation remains in effect. We’ll share updates as more information becomes available.
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.
Costa Rica – Validation of European patents
Costa Rica now recognises European patents, simplifying protection for inventors. Discover how this change impacts your patent strategy.
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.
Fee increases at USPTO
The USPTO will increase many of its patent-related fees on 19 January 2025, including application filings, appeals, and patent issuances. Consider filing before this date to benefit from the current lower rates.
Ethiopia – Accession to Paris Convention and Madrid Protocol
Ethiopia has officially joined the Paris Convention and Madrid Protocol, aligning its IP framework with global standards. These moves, alongside WTO TRIPS compliance, aim to modernise Ethiopia’s IP landscape and stimulate trade and investment.
OAPI – New patent and utility model law coming into force shortly
OAPI has announced that Annexes I and II of the revised Bangui Accord, covering patents and utility models, will come into force on 1 January 2025. Further guidance on the new law is expected soon.
Lebanon - Operational difficulties at IPO
The Lebanese Intellectual Property Office is struggling with severe operational disruptions due to ongoing economic and political instability, leading to staff shortages and technical issues. This is causing significant delays in the processing of IP applications.
Uruguay formally acceding to the PCT
Uruguay will join the PCT on 7 January 2025, following its deposit of the instrument of accession on 7 October 2024. This move aims to support local innovation, attract investment, and strengthen Uruguay’s position in the global patent landscape.
Annual Maintenance Fees due January 2025
We remind all applicants and owners of Cayman Islands patent, trade mark and design registrations, and all owners of trade marks in the Turks & Caicos Islands, that the next annual maintenance fees (AMFs) for such cases are due for payment on 1 January 2025. If these annual fees are not paid by 31 March 2025, penalty fees will accrue.