We recently returned from the Singapore 2023 International Trademark Association (INTA) conference, where we had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the latest trends and developments in the field of intellectual property. Although we regret not being able to meet all of our friends and clients personally, we are grateful for the invaluable knowledge and connections we gained during the event.

 

As promised and as always, we would like to share some key updates and developments in our respective jurisdictions which encompass recent changes in IP laws, regulations and practices that may impact your business operations and brand protection strategies. We believe that staying informed about these changes is crucial for your intellectual property rights management and overall success.

 

Oman

 

Fees reduction for several IP services

 

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion has issued Ministerial Resolution No. 292/2023 that cancels the fees of 20 government services provided by the Ministry for companies and individuals.

 

Amongst the fees waived are:

 

  1. Publication with Ministry of Commerce of accepted Trademark application, renewal, license and assignment recordal applications.
  2. Obtaining a copy of the patent after grant.
  3. Checking the records of Trademark only one time for finding and obtaining its particulars to establish the latest status.

 

Libya

 

The Trademarks office has resumed its normal operation

 

The Libyan Trademark Office resumed its normal operations on 28 May 2023. It should be noted that since November 2022, the TMO has been operating at a limited capacity by processing only IP cases related to Libyan individuals and companies whilst freezing all IP services related to foreign applicants.

 

Afghanistan

 

Trademarks renewal:

 

It is now possible to apply for the renewal of a registered trademark application with a simply signed and sealed power of attorney and obtain the renewal official filing receipt with no deadline to submit the original legalization of same, however, the trademarks office will not issue the renewal certificate unless this document is submitted.

 

Saudi Arabia

 

Bad-faith cancelation action requires sending an initial letter to the trademark registrant:

 

As per Article 22 of the GCC trademark law, before initiating a cancellation action based on non-use or bad faith registration in KSA, a letter should be sent through the electronic platform of the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) to the trademark registrant if his information is available therein advising them of the imminent cancellation action to be undertaken against their trademark; otherwise, the letter should be served through a Saudi local law office. The registrant has fifteen (15) days from the letter receipt date to respond, after which period the cancellation action can be lodged.

 

Lebanon

 

The Lebanese Ministry of Economy and Trade has resumed its operations for all IP-related matters from the second week of May after a prolonged civil strike by its staff and administration.

 

The IPO will prioritize the processing of already filed applications, renewals, and recordals with due dates while rest of the matters will proceed according to the below schedule:

 

  • Each Tuesday:

This day is only dedicated to all transactions and applications related to patents, industrial designs and copyrights.

  • Each Wednesday:

This day is only dedicated to trademarks matters including new registrations, renewals and recordals.

  • Each Thursday:

On each Thursday, the agent will receive all the receipts and/or certificates for the completed actions depending on the workload of the IP Office.

 

For any further information on the above, please contact JAH Intellectual Property at info@jahcoip.com