The Trademark Office in Iraq has announced the adoption of the 11th edition of the Nice International Classification, starting January 2025. This marks a significant shift from the current system, which follows the 7th edition. The new classification will cover 45 classes of goods and services, aligning Iraq with international standards. One of the key ...

TÜRKPATENT and the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) have taken a significant step toward enhancing collaboration in intellectual property (IP). During the Third Belt and Road High-Level Conference on Intellectual Property in China, the two organizations signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at sharing knowledge, experience, and expertise. The MoU focuses on ...

Kuwait’s Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) has officially launched the first phase of the .kw domain registration service as part of a broader initiative to enhance the country's digital infrastructure. This move, effective September 23, 2024, is seen as a significant step in promoting Kuwait's online presence and supporting local businesses. The initial ...

Starting October 26, 2024, the Yemeni Trademark Office has increased the number of goods or services that can be included in a single trademark application from 4 to 10, reducing the need for multiple applications. Additionally, as of October 11, 2024, Yemen has adopted the 12th edition of the Nice Classification, reaffirming exclusions for Class ...

The Saudi Cabinet has recently approved a new set of regulations concerning the registration and management of trade names, aimed at enhancing transparency and reliability in the business environment. These regulations, published in Official Gazette No. 5050 on October 4, 2024, will become effective 180 calendar days after the publication date and introduce significant updates ...

We are pleased to announce that we are moving to a new office location in Egypt. Effective September 22, 2024, our new contact details will be as follows: Cairo Festival City - Business Park Building 10A06-1, Office 103 New Cairo, Cairo, Egypt Should you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact us ...

Throughout September, Saba IP had the opportunity to attend several prominent international conferences, namely IPO Annual Meeting (Chicago, IL), TMAP (Philadelphia, PA), Marques (Stockholm, Sweden), and FICPI (Madrid, Spain), further solidifying our position as a leader in the intellectual property field. Our team engaged with industry professionals and clients, sharing insights, and exploring the latest ...

The Lebanese Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is currently facing significant operational challenges due to the ongoing situation in Lebanon. These challenges include employee absenteeism and technical issues with the online portal. As a result, the IPO has announced an extension of all deadlines that were set to expire starting from Monday, September 23, 2024, until ...

The Patent Office in Qatar has recently issued an important clarification concerning the payment of annual patent fees, as outlined in Circular No. 2/2024. The Patent Office has confirmed that it will now resume accepting annuity payments on all patent applications, irrespective of whether the application has been accepted or granted. This development is particularly ...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ministry of Economy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) in May 2024, to improve collaboration in the field of intellectual property (IP). The MoU focuses on building skills for IP professionals through joint training programs and seminars. The agreement also encourages the ...

Kuwait granted 25 patents in the first 6 months of 2024, marking a total of approximately 4,000 patent-related actions including applications, renewals, and examinations in the first half of 2024, according to data released by the Patent Office. A total of 339 new patent applications were recorded, with May witnessing the highest number at 71 ...

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) issued around 4,000 commercial registrations and around 12,000 commercial licenses in the second quarter of this year. During the same period, 10,334 requests for the renewal of commercial registrations, according to official records. MOCI’s Commercial Registration and Licenses Department manages policies for trade agents, businesses, and commercial registrations, ...

Oman experienced an 11% increase in trademark registration applications in 2023, with a total of 13,043 applications, up from 11,742 in 2022, according to the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO). This growth highlights the ongoing expansion of intellectual property (IP) protection in the country. In the first half of 2024, 6,109 trademarks and 428 patents ...

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) in Bahrain has established a significant cooperation agreement with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to implement a fast-track system for the technical examination of patents. This agreement, known as the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH), aims to accelerate the patent application process in Bahrain by leveraging ...

Saudi Arabia and Indonesia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on developing their intellectual property (IP) ecosystems. This agreement was established on the sidelines of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) meeting in Geneva. The cooperation framework aims to create synergy and mutual benefits in managing and developing IP systems in both ...

The Ministry of Economy (MOEC) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has enacted Federal Decree-Law No. 42 of 2023, designed to strengthen consumer protection and combat commercial fraud. This legislation introduces robust mechanisms to prevent the distribution of counterfeit, adulterated, and defective products, thereby ensuring fair competition and enhancing the UAE’s global competitiveness. The new ...

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is making significant strides in the protection of plant varieties, a crucial step towards enhancing food security and agricultural productivity. This article provides a detailed look at the advancements in plant variety protection (PVP) across key countries in the region, highlighting legal frameworks, agricultural innovations, and economic ...

The Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) in Qatar has announced significant updates to the validation of power of attorney (POA) documents and a series of fee reductions, aimed at improving efficiency and encouraging investment. Validation of Power of Attorney Documents: Circular No. 5/2024 introduces significant changes to the validation of POA documents: Validity Period: POAs ...

The African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) has recently implemented substantial changes to its trademark practices, aimed at improving efficiency and accessibility. These changes, including the introduction of a new e-filing system, stem from the 2022 amendment to the Bangui Agreement and reflect OAPI’s commitment to modernizing its operations. Streamlined Processes One of the most notable ...

The African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) launched a Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot program with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA). This initiative aims to expedite patent examination processes by leveraging the existing work of both offices. Under this collaboration, applicants can request accelerated processing of their patent applications if a corresponding application ...

We are excited to highlight a significant opportunity that could open new avenues for your intellectual property strategies in Africa. The Somali Intellectual Property Office (SIPO) has resumed in early 2021, after a hiatus of nearly three decades, thanks to Ministerial Decree 1 of 2019. This development signifies a promising opportunity for trademark registrations and ...

Ghana has officially ratified the ARIPO Arusha Protocol for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants, joining Rwanda, São Tomé e Príncipe, and Cape Verde. This ratification initiates the Protocol’s implementation on November 24, 2024, enhancing the legal framework for protecting plant breeders’ rights across the region. The Arusha Protocol, adopted in 2015, aims to ...

The UAE Ministry of Economy has reported significant progress in protecting intellectual property (IP) rights for creative works in the digital realm. This advancement comes from the implementation of a new mechanism developed in collaboration with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). The initiative aims to create a secure environment for IP rights ...

Saudi Arabia and Japan have expanded their intellectual property (IP) cooperation through a recent bilateral meeting between the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) and the Japan Patent Office (JPO), held on June 2, 2024. This meeting builds on the 2019 Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC), which initially focused on collaborative projects in patent examination, human ...

The UAE has witnessed a significant increase in trademark registrations in the first quarter of 2024, reflecting robust engagement with intellectual property rights. Official data from the UAE Ministry of Economy revealed a 64% surge in trademark registrations, with a total of 4,610 new trademarks registered in Q1 2024, compared to 2,813 in the same ...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made significant strides in enforcing intellectual property rights, particularly against counterfeit goods, showcasing its commitment to protecting creators’ rights and fostering a secure environment for innovation. In the first quarter of 2024, Dubai Customs seized over 4.36 million counterfeit items valued at approximately AED 5.43 million. The UAE’s robust ...

Jordan has experienced a significant surge in trademark and patent registrations over the past year. According to the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Supply, trademark registrations increased by 69% in 2023, reaching a total of 8,521 new trademarks. Patent registrations also saw a remarkable rise, jumping from 54 in 2022 to 157 in 2023, reflecting ...

Saudi Arabia recently joined The Hague Agreement, an international treaty governing the registration of industrial designs. This move is part of Saudi Arabia’s strategy to enhance its intellectual property (IP) framework, aligning with its Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy and boost global competitiveness. The Hague Agreement allows designers to protect their industrial designs ...

Dubai Police's Economic Crimes Department has significantly ramped up its efforts against intellectual property violations, registering 1,297 cases and seizing counterfeit goods worth approximately AED 8.7 billion (around USD 2.3 billion) since 2019. These actions underscore the Emirate's commitment to protecting intellectual property rights and curtailing the counterfeit goods market. Details of Enforcement and Impact ...

In a significant crackdown on intellectual property breaches, Saudi Arabia has blocked 3,317 websites and seized over 41 million counterfeit items, demonstrating a robust enforcement campaign by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP). This campaign is part of the broader strategy to safeguard IP rights and foster a creativity-driven economy. Details of the Crackdown ...

In a move to strengthen Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) enforcement, Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have reached an agreement to boost bilateral cooperation. Strategic Initiatives and Collaboration The talks highlighted the mutual interest in establishing Intellectual Property offices in strategic regions, seen as pivotal for enhancing economic ties and promoting regional development. The focus on key areas ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) has recently updated its procedure for handling rejected trademark applications. Previously, when a trademark application was denied, the applicant had two choices: either appeal the decision or amend the mark within a 10-day grace period. Under the new policy, this flexibility has been removed; applicants now have only ...

As of March 29, 2024, the Algerian National Institute of Industrial Property (INAPI) has started applying a 19 percent VAT rate on all official fees associated with intellectual property services. This new taxation measure follows Algeria’s broader fiscal policy adjustments aimed at standardizing VAT application across various service sectors, which began with the Finance and ...

Jordan has made notable strides in reforming its customs enforcement over the past year, addressing a significant volume of customs violations, including a substantial number of smuggling cases. This effort is part of a broader initiative to modernize its trade and customs processes, with potential implications for intellectual property (IP) rights and brand protection that ...

In a significant move towards bolstering its intellectual property regime, Saudi Arabia has introduced amendments to its law governing Patents, Layout-Designs of Integrated Circuits, Plant Varieties, and Industrial Designs. These amendments, enacted through Royal Decree No. (M/45) dated September 25, 2023, and effective from October 3, 2023, represent a pivotal shift in Saudi Arabia’s approach ...

Effective February 15, 2024, Lebanon enacted Law No. 324, revising the fee structure for intellectual property rights and shortening the trademark protection term. The key changes under Law No. 324 are the increase in official fees for the filing, registration, renewal, and recordal of intellectual property rights, applicable to all pending and future applications. Additionally, ...

Sudan has recently taken proactive steps to maintain the continuity of trademark application processing despite challenges posed by current circumstances. Recognizing ongoing inaccessibility of the main office in Khartoum, Sudan has established a temporary Trademark Office to address these concerns. This temporary office is now accepting a range of trademark applications, including new filings, renewals, ...

Türkiye has introduced a pivotal change in its trademark law, effective January 10, 2024, transferring the authority for trademark cancellation actions from the courts to the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office (TPTO). This move is aimed at simplifying the process, particularly for cases involving non-use, generic trademarks, misleading trademarks, and those not adhering to technical ...

Morocco, strategically positioned at the crossroads of Africa and Europe, exemplifies a harmonious blend of a rich cultural heritage and a forward-looking approach to innovation and development. As a beacon of stability and economic growth in the North African region, Morocco is on a transformative journey, marking significant strides in diversifying its economy and enhancing ...

Myanmar is embarking on a significant transformation of its legal and economic scene, with the implementation of new intellectual property laws that promise to reshape how trademarks and industrial designs are protected and managed. This comprehensive update reflects Myanmar’s dedication to fostering innovation, creativity, and economic growth by aligning its IP framework with international standards. ...

Iraq’s recent accession to the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) marks a significant stride in enhancing its intellectual property framework. As of May 31, 2022, Iraq, identified by the code IQ in PCT applications, has been designated in these applications, paving the way for a more streamlined and integrated approach to international patent protection. This move, ...

Reflecting on the momentum of legal reforms in Libya, as detailed in our earlier analysis, the country has taken a significant stride in trademark management. For an in-depth understanding of the background leading to these developments, we invite you to revisit our prior coverage. On February 1, 2024, the Trademark Office in Libya (TMO) launched ...

In today’s global landscape, startups are at the forefront of innovation, driving economic growth and transforming industries. From bustling tech hubs to emerging markets, entrepreneurs are bringing groundbreaking ideas to life. Amidst this vibrant ecosystem, one crucial aspect holds the key to long-term success: Intellectual Property (IP) protection. Preserving Unique Innovations: For startups, regardless of their ...

More than a decade ago, Libya introduced a transformative new trademark law. Today, we turn our attention back to this significant legislation in light of recent developments. For those who followed our initial coverage in 2010, you can revisit it here. On January 17, 2024, the Libyan authorities released the implementing regulations for the 2010 ...

Saudi Arabia, traditionally known for its vast oil reserves and rich cultural heritage, is rapidly transforming into a beacon of innovation and economic diversification. This shift, marked by the country's strategic vision and policy reforms, signifies a redefined future that balances its deep-rooted traditions with ambitious modern aspirations. As the largest country in the Arabian ...

In line with Ministerial Decision 97 of 2023, Qatar has recently established a Grievance Committee, marking a significant development in the field of patent law. This committee is tasked with reviewing appeals related to patent application decisions, representing a pivotal change in how patent disputes are handled in the country. Expanded Responsibilities of the Grievance ...

In today’s global economy, innovation plays a vital role in driving growth and fostering development. Countries that invest in innovation can create new products and services, improve productivity, and stimulate economic growth. The innovation index is a tool used to measure a country’s innovation performance, and it has become a key metric for policymakers and ...

In a significant move towards bolstering international cooperation in intellectual property (IP), the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of Qatar have agreed to work closely to develop Qatar’s national IP strategy. This collaboration marks an important step in enhancing bilateral ties and sharing expertise in the realm of ...

Introduction The year 2023 marked a period of substantial growth and transformation in the field of intellectual property. Our annual review encapsulates the pivotal developments, innovative breakthroughs, and key milestones in IP that defined the year across the region. Trademark Updates Harmonizing with International Standards: Yemen, Gaza, and Saudi Arabia aligned with international norms. Yemen ...

In the diverse landscape of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, a significant shift is taking place in healthcare. The practice of drug repurposing—finding new therapeutic uses for existing medications—is emerging as a potent solution to the region’s unique health challenges. As the demands on MENA’s healthcare systems grow, the ability to maximize ...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently enacted significant changes to its industrial property rights fees structure with the issuance of Ministerial Decision No. 112 of 2023. This decision amends the official fees associated with Federal Law No. 11 of 2021, concerning the Regulation and Protection of Industrial Property Rights, and its implementing regulations under ...

Effective from November 2, 2023, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) has implemented the 12th edition of the Nice Classification. In addition to this update, the SAIP no longer accepts class headings, compelling applicants to choose between listing specific items from the list or selecting all items within a class. This shift marks a ...

Innovation is the lifeblood of progress, driving advancements that shape our world. Whether it’s a groundbreaking technology, a novel product, or a unique process, inventors invest their time, resources, and creativity to bring new ideas to life. However, without proper protection, these valuable inventions can be vulnerable to exploitation. This is where the concept of ...

Navigating the intricacies of trademark protection in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is a multifaceted endeavor. From pre-registration oppositions to cancellation proceedings, the path to securing trademark rights varies widely across different jurisdictions. This guide provides an in-depth look at the opposition system, offering clarity to businesses and legal practitioners aiming to ...

Intellectual Property (IP) protection is crucial for innovation and business growth. However, one of the more challenging aspects of securing IP rights in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is the often-complex requirement for document legalization. Legalization authenticates the origin of a document, a step which, while necessary, is seen by many as ...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently taken a significant step to further refine its arbitration mechanism by introducing amendments to the Federal Arbitration Law No. (6) of 2018 through the Federal Law No. (15) of 2023 (“Amendment Law”). While the amendments span various aspects of arbitration, the following article emphasizes key points that intellectual ...

Dubai’s skyline and Abu Dhabi’s innovative architecture are the hallmarks of the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) intent to be a leading player in the global business sphere. When assessing the nation’s offerings to global franchisers, it is crucial to note its progressive intellectual property (IP) landscape. UAE: More than a Strategic Geographical Nexus The UAE, ...

Nigeria, with its burgeoning economy and population of over 200 million, stands as the economic powerhouse of Africa. The country’s rapidly growing market presents a wealth of opportunities for businesses to expand and thrive. However, in this dynamic environment, safeguarding your intellectual property (IP) becomes a strategic imperative. Saba IP is committed to supporting businesses ...

In a remarkable move emphasizing the nation’s commitment to intellectual property (IP) rights and protections, the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe has officially acceded to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin (AOs) and Geographical Indications (GIs). This step, executed on August 2, 2023, fortifies the country’s IP regime, ...

Ethiopia’s economic canvas is undergoing a transformation. The recent measures by the National Bank of Ethiopia, emphasizing favorable conditions for foreign investors, mark a strategic pivot in the nation’s bid to become a prominent international business player. Overview of Ethiopia’s Economic Reforms Forex Liberalization: With foreign exchange shortages being a historical barrier to business operations, ...

In an important development, the Republic of Rwanda has officially joined the Budapest Treaty on the International Recognition of the Deposit of Microorganisms for the Purposes of Patent Procedure. This step marks a significant milestone for the East African nation in the realm of intellectual property rights and biotechnology. What is the Budapest Treaty? Established ...

In a proactive measure to potentially encourage individual patent applications, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce in Bahrain has implemented a fee reduction for certain patent-related services tailored for individual applicants. As per Decision No. 67 of 2023, these adjustments primarily focus on the charges associated with filing a patent application, its substantive examination, and ...

In an exciting development that reinforces Saudi Arabia’s dedication to the global intellectual property community, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) has freshly inked a Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) agreement with the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS). This strategic move is yet another testament to SAIP’s unwavering commitment to fostering international partnerships and ...

The international patent landscape has seen a recent significant development as the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property (OMPIC) joined hands with France’s National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI). On September 5, 2023, the entities established a Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) agreement. This collaboration, while being the inaugural partnership between an African nation and ...

The Trademarks (Amendment) Act, enacted in 2023, has brought sweeping changes to trademark practices in Pakistan. These amendments not only reorganize administrative control but also introduce specialized tribunals, extend legal coverage to electronic communications, and offer global reach for trademark registrations. This landmark legislation stands to significantly improve the Intellectual Property landscape in Pakistan, encouraging ...

In a significant stride towards modernizing its intellectual property framework, Yemen has taken a commendable step by adopting the 10th edition of the Nice Classification. This update marks a leap from the outgoing 8th edition. With Yemen’s transition to the 10th edition of the Nice Classification, it is important to note that certain items are ...

On August 6, 2023, Egypt underwent a transformative shift in its approach to IP regulation as the law establishing the Egyptian Authority for Intellectual Property (EAIP) came into effect. This landmark development marks the beginning of a new chapter, with the EAIP taking on a comprehensive mandate over all aspects of intellectual property within the ...

In an exciting development for trademark owners, the Ministry of Justice in South Sudan has reactivated the process of trademark reservation. The reintroduction of this process allows brand owners to protect their valuable intellectual property by ‘reserving’ their marks. This move aims to prevent third parties from registering similar marks once the new law comes ...

In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, businesses heavily rely on software to streamline operations, boost productivity, and maintain a competitive edge. However, some companies resort to unethical practices, such as using pirated software from third-party sources, underestimating the serious risks they expose their businesses to. At Saba IP, we believe in raising awareness about the ...

In the ever-evolving landscape of technological advancements, the seamless transfer of innovative ideas and cutting-edge technologies is crucial for accelerating progress and fostering global development. Technology transfer, the process of sharing and disseminating knowledge, intellectual property, and technical expertise, plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between research and practical applications. One essential aspect ...

Further to our earlier report on the matter, Qatar is set to enforce the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Trademark Law on August 10, 2023. As previously stated in our aforementioned article, the adoption of this law signifies a momentous milestone for Qatar’s intellectual property landscape. The GCC Trademark Law aims to establish a consistent set ...

Qatar has officially adopted the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Trademark Law on July 9, 2023, marking a significant milestone. This update, conveyed through Ministerial Decision No. 56 of 2023, has been published in the Official Gazette alongside the comprehensive Implementing Regulations, and will enter into force on August 10, 2023. Since the late ‘80s, the ...

Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step towards enhancing its position on the Global Innovation Index (GII) and supporting the country's Vision 2030. During the Assemblies of the Member States of WIPO: Sixty-Fourth Series of Meetings, held in Geneva in July 2023, the unanimous approval was granted for Saudi Intellectual Property Authority (SAIP) to become ...

In a further move towards restoring its position as a regional patent office, the Gulf Cooperation Council Patent Office (GCCPO) has expanded its services to include Qatar, in addition to Bahrain and Kuwait. Applicants now have the option to designate BH, KW, and/or QA when filing a patent application with the GCCPO. Once substantive examination ...

On May 28, 2023, the Trademark Office (TMO) in Libya resumed its normal operations, bringing relief to businesses and individuals seeking intellectual property protection in Libya. We would like to emphasize that since November 2022, the TMO had been functioning at a limited capacity, focusing solely on IP cases related to Libyan individuals and companies. ...

In a significant move to foster innovation and support intellectual property rights, the National Intellectual Property Office at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion of Oman has recently taken a proactive step. According to decision 292/2023, the authorities concerned implemented a series of measures aimed at enhancing accessibility to intellectual property services and ...

The Kuwait Patent Office (KPO) has announced that the online portal is now operational for the payment of annuities. To keep their applications and patents valid, owners are required to pay their annuities, including upcoming ones, during the pendency of their applications. Failure to pay annuities within the statutory term or grace period will lead ...

Saba IP has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Ras Al Khaimah Department of Economic Development (RAK DED) to combat commercial fraud and counterfeiting of trademarks. The agreement aims to implement the best practices and procedures to protect intellectual property rights while preserving the rights of consumers, brand owners and the economic interests ...

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Suhail F. Saba, a cherished partner, friend, and colleague to us all. Throughout his remarkable career, Mr. Saba left a lasting mark on the region and the industry through his unwavering work ethic and commitment to excellence. Mr. Saba may have retired from the ...

To ensure smooth patent linkage and prevent conflicts, pharmaceutical and biotech companies are encouraged to disclose any relevant Saudi and/or Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) patents when applying for product registration with the regulatory authority. If a patent is granted post-registration, companies have a 30-day window to inform the regulatory authority for proper linkage. The linkage ...

The Trademark Office (TMO) in Iraq announced that trademark applications filed in Latin script must include the Arabic transliteration of the mark. This update, which applies to applications currently undergoing examination and new filings made on or after January 2, 2023, rescinds the previous practice at the TMO that did not demand the Arabic transliteration ...

The Ministry of National Economy in Gaza recently announced that it is adopting the 11th Edition of the Nice Classification and the 10th Edition of Locarno Classification. The new classifications will apply to new applications filed on or after December 6, 2022. It is worth noting that class 33 and alcoholic goods in class 32 ...

The Kenyan Anti-Counterfeiting Authority (ACA) recently reaffirmed that the businesses that export goods to Kenya must record their intellectual property rights (IPR) with the authority as of January 1, 2023—as we previously reported earlier this year. The ACA will not permit the import of genuine goods bearing any IPR that have not been recorded. Companies ...

The Gulf Cooperation Council Patent Office (GCCPO) recently announced that it will start accepting new filings and performing formality and substantive examination pursuant to the amended law and regulations designating Bahrain and Kuwait. Once accepted, patents will be granted and published by the respective patent offices. It is still unclear how annuities are going to ...

As part of the ongoing national campaign to ease market entry and promote the growth of the private sector, Saudi Arabia acceded to The Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents on December 7, 2022. By way of background, the aforementioned convention is a multilateral treaty that was drafted by the ...

Our annual “Year in Review” feature sums up the most important Intellectual Property (IP) news and developments that unfolded over the past year in the Middle East, Africa, and their neighboring regions. This past year highlighted the extraordinarily valiant and continued efforts that the entire world took in fighting the pandemic. With social distancing reduced ...

Following the issuance of the National Intellectual Property Strategy in September, and in compliance with its mandate to unify all IP related matters under one authority, Egypt announced the upcoming establishment of the Egyptian Authority for Intellectual Property (EAIP). The draft law that was issued in this regard outlines the responsibilities of the EAIP that ...

Ethiopia is the second most populous country in Africa. For more than a decade before 2016, the GDP grew at a rate between 8 percent and 11 percent annually – one of the fastest growing states among the 188 IMF member countries. This growth, which has been driven by the government’s investment in infrastructure, as ...

The International Centre for Patent Registration (ICPR) at the Ministry of Economy in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) held a workshop to discuss changes pursuant to the introduction and publication of the new Industrial Property Law (Federal Law No. 11/2021) and Implementing Regulations (Federal Law No. 6/2022). Some key takeaways from the workshop that affect ...

With a transcontinental location in Africa and Asia, and a considerable proximity to Europe, Egypt occupies an unrivaled and an increasingly significant regional role in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Egypt holds the record for being the most populous country in the region with over 107 million inhabitants. More than half of Egypt’s ...

Patent Term Extension (PTE), also known as Supplemental Patent Certificate (SPC) in some countries, is a mechanism by which patent owners may request an extension on the life of a patent. In most countries where such a practice is applicable, PTE or SPC is generally and primarily used by pharmaceuticals and biotechnology companies, but depending ...

Brand owners have become increasingly aware of the importance of extending their trademark portfolios to the rapidly developing Middle East and North Africa (MENA) market. A combined, relatively young population of half a billion, growing at double digit rates, plays a significant role in making the region one of the fastest-growing markets in the world ...

With its significant geopolitical position in South Asia that provides the country with convenient access to the international market, Pakistan is nestled in the cradle of the historical Indus Valley, which dates back at least 5,000 years. Local industries include textiles and apparel, food processing, pharmaceuticals, surgical instruments, construction materials, paper products, fertilizer, and shrimp. ...

Morocco recently ratified the Geneva Act of the Hague Agreement, which entered into force in July 2022. Companies and designers in Morocco can now seek design protection in all the 94 countries covered by the Hague System, which further accelerates local growth into international markets. In parallel, non-residents seeking design protection in Morocco will be ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) recently signed a Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) agreement with the European Patent Office (EPO).  The PPH agreement is expected to foster and develop a bilateral partnership in the field of intellectual property and to strengthen the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the European Union. The PPH allows an ...

Formed from the merger of the British colony of the Gold Coast and the Togoland trust territory, Ghana in 1957 became the first Sub-Saharan country in colonial Africa to gain its independence. With a total area of 238,535 km2 (92,099 sq mi), Ghana is bordered by Côte d’Ivoire in the west, Burkina Faso in the ...

The Middle East and North Africa region, more commonly known as MENA, receives its share of news in the international circuit. At the forefront, the boom which began in Saudi Arabia a few years ago is still going strong, along with the introduction and implementation of many reforms, which are steadily fueling the diversification of ...

Located at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Turkey occupies a transcontinental position of significant importance, which bestows upon the country a considerable influence across the region and beyond. Turkey’s strategic geographic position makes it an important energy and logistics corridor, linking Europe with the Middle East, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. With the rise ...

The island-nation of Cabo Verde is set to be the 22nd member of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO).Cabo Verde, which is located across the western shores of Africa, acceded to the Lusaka Agreement, Banjul, and Harare Protocols and the treaties are expected to enter into force on July 6, 2022.In related news, Cabo ...

In an effort to combat counterfeiting and piracy, the Kenyan Anti-Counterfeiting Authority (ACA) recently adopted a further measure to combat imports of counterfeit goods into the country, as stated in Section 34B of the Anti-Counterfeit Act, 2008 and the Anti-Counterfeit (Recordation) Regulations of 2021. Brand owners have a deadline of January 1, 2023 to register ...

As part of the country’s efforts in advancing its intellectual property (IP) procurement and investment scene, Qatar established the Court of Investment and Commerce (CIC). The CIC, which was inaugurated on May 10, 2022, is handling all issues pertaining to dispute resolution and enforcement of IP rights. The status of the laws and regulations ...

In an effort to encourage the creation of art and culture, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property announced the launch of the online optional registration service for copyrights of written materials in Saudi Arabia.This comes after the Implementing Regulations of the Copyright Law entered into force on December 23, 2019, which confirm the present procedures ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) announced a decrease in the official publication fees of trademark applications. The new rates will apply to all applications filed on or after June 9, 2022. By way of background, trademark applications and recordals are published electronically in the Official Gazette upon acceptance. Oppositions may be filed within ...

Authenticity of foreign signatures and documents in the UAE requires what is known as legalization to be legally valid. The legalization process is both time consuming and costly; in addition, places certain transactions at risk if a legalized document is not secured within a statutory period of time. Supporting documents for national entry of PCT ...

The Office of the United States Trade Representative published the Special 301 Report in April 2022, reviewing global developments on trade and intellectual property. The most notable update this year is that Saudi Arabia was removed from the Priority Watch List following a number of favorable steps taken by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual ...

GCC Region: January 6, 2021 marked the first day on which the regional GCC Patent Office (GCCPO) stopped accepting new patent applications claiming a 12-month priority. For those applicants that filed PCT applications as of that date and are considering the Arabian Gulf market for extending their patents, July 6, 2022 marks the first ...

As of May 1, 2022, PCT applications started designating Iraq (IQ) for national entry phase. To date, the Directorate of Patents and Industrial Designs Central Organization for Standardization and Quality Control (COSQC) has not issued new guidance on PCT-based filings and prosecution. Under the Convention filings, applications are required to include legalized assignment documents ...

After years of preparation, workshops, and meetings, Iraq has finally taken the leap and acceded to the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) on January 31, 2022. The Treaty will enter into force on April 30, 2022, and once the proper infrastructure has been established, all international applications, filed on this date or after, will designate ...

As part of the ongoing national campaign to ease market entry and promote the growth of the private sector, Saudi Arabia approved the accession to The Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (Apostille). Saudi Arabia is expected to complete the necessary legal procedures for the Kingdom’s accession to the ...

The long awaited amendments to the OAPI system are now in force. The African Organization for Intellectual Property, better known by the French acronym OAPI, announced that the new IP laws concerning trademarks, geographic indications, utility models, and industrial designs entered into force on January 1, 2022. The amendments have been ratified by the ...

As more and more patent offices in the Middle East and North Africa evolve with updated laws, regulations or systems, the services they provide improve and become more streamlined and efficient. Not surprisingly, the Egyptian Patent Office (EGPO) launched its electronic patent services and began receiving and processing patent applications in electronic form as ...

With coasts along the Mediterranean basin and a close proximity to Europe, Tunisia occupies a regional position of great importance in North Africa. Tunisia is an export-oriented country that is actively liberalizing and privatizing its economy. The country has a diverse economy, ranging from agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and petroleum products, to tourism. Key exports ...

Effective January 1, 2022, our offices in Dubai, United Arab Emirates will adopt a Monday to Friday workweek schedule, with Saturday and Sunday forming the new weekend. This update follows the UAE’s shift of the working week for the public sector to better align its economy with global markets. Saba IP - UAE Office: ...

As a much welcomed attempt at improving the intellectual property scene in the country, Federal Decree Law No. 36 of 2021 (the Trademark Law) will enter into force in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on January 2, 2022. The new Law was published in the Official Gazette in September 2021. The definition of a ...

Bahrain announced that the value added tax (VAT) rate will be increased to 10 percent from the current rate of 5 percent effective January 1, 2022. By way of background, VAT was introduced in July 2019 and applied to goods and services, with some limited exceptions on basic food items, healthcare, and education. Should ...

Our annual “Year in Review” feature sums up the most important Intellectual Property (IP) news and developments that unfolded over the past year in the Middle East, Africa, and their neighboring regions. This past year highlighted the extraordinarily valiant efforts that the entire world took in fighting the pandemic. With vaccination campaigns and social ...

The long awaited Implementing Regulations of the amended GCC Patent Law are now available. The regulations were published in Issue 25 of the Official Gazette of the Secretariat General of the GCC and are expected to enter into force, as well as the amended Law, on February 1, 2022. These will undoubtedly pave the ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the patent protection scene in the country, India recently published the Patents (Amendment) Rules of 2021, which amend the Patents Rules of 2003. The amendment now includes a new category, “eligible educational institutions.” Rule 2(ca) now defines an educational institution as “a university established or incorporated by or under ...

Located at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Turkey occupies a transcontinental position of significant importance, which bestows upon the country a considerable influence across the region and beyond. Turkey’s largely free-market economy is driven by its industry and, increasingly, service sectors, although its traditional agriculture sector still accounts for about 25 percent of employment ...

As governments begin easing travel restrictions in the wake of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), we are witnessing the reopening of several Intellectual Property Offices in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. With this update, we want to assure you that our main priority remains to ensure the safety and well-being of our people, ...

After a brief disruption, the Trademark Office (TMO) in Afghanistan has resumed full operations and is now accepting new trademark applications and processing pending applications. By way of background, the TMO follows the 10th edition of the Nice classification, and trademark examination is performed on formal, absolute, and relative grounds. Oppositions may be filed within ...

The Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) welcomed the deposit of the instrument of accession of United Arab Emirates (UAE) to the Protocol Relating to the Madrid Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Marks on September 28, 2021. The agreement is expected to enter into force on December 28, 2021. UAE Affiliations: ...

The Ministry of Justice in Saudi Arabia has recently launched its first digital judicial data portal. The web platform is an interactive database that will list judicial and legal data. The purpose is to provide a single entry point through which lawyers, judges, and other researches to access final commercial rulings issued by Courts of ...

With its significant geopolitical position in South Asia that provides the country with convenient access to the international market, Pakistan is nestled in the cradle of the historical Indus Valley civilization, which dates back at least 5,000 years. Local industries include textiles and apparel, food processing, pharmaceuticals, surgical instruments, construction materials, paper products, fertilizer, and ...

With over 57 rivers and vast rich fertile flat lands, Bangladesh is a lush country that is ripe with opportunities. The country’s location in South Asia provides Bangladesh with convenient access to the international market. Bangladesh’s economy has grown roughly six percent per year since 2005. More than half of the country’s GDP is generated ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the French Institute of Industrial Property (INPI). The MOU aims to facilitate the bilateral cooperation in intellectual property between the two countries through exchange of information and practices, as well as experience and capacity building in intellectual property in general ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) is continuously proving its prowess after it has successfully confiscated and destroyed more than 5 million items that were in violation of intellectual property rights. The infringing products that were confiscated by the SAIP in a sting operation alongside the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority and the Ministry ...

In an effort to facilitate and promote innovation in the country, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) issued and published the new Law on Industrial Property, Law No. 11 of 2021 in the Federal Gazette No. 706. Implementation of the law awaits publication of the related implementing regulations, which are expected to be drafted by the ...

The official fees for all intellectual property related matters increased significantly across the board in comparison with their previous level in Sudan. The new rates were published in the Official Gazette on August 5 and will be implemented on August 8, 2021 and apply to all new and pending applications. Should you have any questions, ...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has garnered an illustrious reputation of having one of the most robust anti-counterfeiting regimes in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The UAE, which is hailed as a desert oasis of opportunities, offers a prime location for the launch and marketing of international brands and is an international ...

The Middle East and North Africa region, more commonly known as MENA, receives its share of news in the international circuit. At the forefront, the boom which began in Saudi Arabia a few years ago is still going strong, along with the introduction and implementation of a number of reforms, which are steadily fueling the ...

Saudi Arabia recently adopted the 11th Edition of the Nice Classification, thus replacing the outgoing 10th Edition. The adoption of the 11th Edition will not affect trademarks already filed and registered. Upon next renewal, goods and services affected by this change in formalities will be reclassified accordingly by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP). ...

The Egyptian Customs Authority launched a new electronic system for the pre-registration of all shipment information, aptly named the Advanced Cargo Information (ACI). Registration on the ACI will be mandatory for all shipments arriving at Egyptian seaports from July 1, 2021. Air and land ports will follow suite in the next phase of implementation and ...

In light of its revived efforts to crackdown on intellectual property infringement and malicious business practices, Kuwait published the Implementing Regulations of the unified GCC Anti-Commercial Fraud Law No. 20 of 2019. The new regulations were published on May 31, 2021 in order to assist the authorities concerned in their ongoing efforts to enforce the ...

Located at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Turkey occupies a transcontinental position of significant importance, which bestows upon the country a considerable influence across the region and beyond. Turkey’s strategic geographic position makes it an important energy and logistics corridor, linking Europe with the Middle East, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. With the rise ...

With its significant geopolitical position in South Asia that provides the country with convenient access to the international market, Pakistan is nestled in the cradle of the historical Indus Valley civilization, which dates back at least 5,000 years. In a more contemporary context on the legal scene, Pakistan maintains a relatively comprehensive regulatory and legislative ...

With the exponential rise of digital media, coupled with the ubiquity of smart devices, esports is a pastime that entertains millions of fans and generates billions of dollars that are up for grabs. Streaming services, especially during the global lockdown, have transformed even the most casual gamers into serious contenders, with a select few reaching ...

As the region awaits an update from the GCC Patent Office on resuming regional patent filings, the Secretariat General of the GCC in the meantime published the amendments to the GCC Patent Law, which were approved in the last meeting of the GCC summit. The amended law was published in the Official Gazette No. 22 ...

Given the recent trend in going paperless in the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Kuwaiti Patent Office (KPO) announced that it will begin receiving and processing patent applications in electronic form as of May 19, 2021, via its online platform. This development, which follows the recently announced examination, publication, and grant ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the intellectual property scene in the country, Oman ratified its instrument of accession to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications. The Geneva Act will enter into force in Oman on June 30, 2021. With this update, Oman is the first country ...

On February 1, 2021, the Lebanese Domain Registry (LBDR) announced a major change of its policies for the registration and renewals of the “.lb ccTLD” domain names. According to the new policy, the registration and maintenance of an “.lb” domain name will no longer be free, as it had been since the establishment of the ...

The Trademark Office in the United Arab Emirates (TMO) announced that the legalized power of attorney (POA) may be submitted within 30 days from filing date. Prior to this procedural change, the POA had to be submitted to the TMO at the time of filing. Oppositions and appeals are excluded from this update, however, and ...

In a stop-press update, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) announced the launch of its very own Intellectual Property Newspaper (IPN) on April 11, 2021. The IPN replaces the old publication portal for all IP matters. The IPN will exclusively be published online and will include bibliographic information and a representative drawing for all ...

In a long awaited move, the Kuwaiti Patent Office (KPO) has begun substantive examination of patent applications and is issuing search and examination reports. The process is still a little shy but is expected to increase as is the case with any new procedure. Furthermore, earlier this year, KPO published two granted patents in its ...

The humble seed is the foundation of agriculture and a major contributor to the global efforts of sustainable food production. The global market for seeds is projected to reach USD 100.36 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.10 percent over the forecast period. Concurrent with this growth in commercial ...

On December 14, 2020, the US Government announced Sudan’s removal from the list of State Sponsors of Terrorism (the “SST List”). This follows another update, on August 11, 2020, when the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced that US persons are no longer prohibited from engaging in transactions with respect to ...

Given the recent trend in going paperless in the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Trademark Office in Kuwait announced the upcoming activation of the online recordal system. Once fully operational, applicants will be able to submit applications for recordal via the online platform. For the time being, however, the TMO is only ...

With coasts along the Mediterranean basin and a close proximity to Europe, Tunisia occupies a regional position of great importance in North Africa. Tunisia is an export-oriented country that is actively liberalizing and privatizing its economy. The country has a diverse economy, ranging from agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and petroleum products, to tourism. Key exports include ...

With Saudi Arabia’s status as the world’s largest exporter of petroleum and a relentless commitment to promote a robust economic diversification program, the desert nation is a market of strategic and economic importance for international brand owners to consider when enforcing their rights. In an effort to combat such malicious practices by unscrupulous individuals on ...

Given the recent trend in going paperless in the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Patent and Trademark Office in Oman announced that the all trademark services will gradually be conducted online starting with trademark registration on March 7, 2021. These e-services, which will be provided via the PTO’s proprietary “Invest Easy” portal, ...

After a period of almost three-decades on hiatus and following the issuance of Ministerial Decree 1 of 2019, the Somali Intellectual Property Office (SIPO) has officially resumed operations. While the East African nation is expected to issue new legislation on intellectual property, for the time being the pre-federal IP law remains in force. Prior to ...

Given the recent trend in going paperless in the region, the Trademark Office in West Bank is planning on introducing an electronic platform for the filing of trademark applications in the near future. We expect this new practice to pave the way for a smoother trademark registration process in West Bank and to accelerate the ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) recently signed a patent prosecution highway agreement with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA). The PPH agreement is expected to foster and develop a bilateral partnership in the field of intellectual property and to strengthen the relationship between Saudi Arabia and the People's Republic of China. The ...

As part of the ongoing national campaign to maintain the highest level of consumer protection, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) issued Federal Law No. 15 of 2020, colloquially known as the Consumer Protection Law, on November 10, 2020. The new Consumer Protection Law, which repeals the outgoing Federal Law No. 24 of 2006, covers all ...

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) recently ratified its accession to the Strasbourg Agreement Concerning the International Patent Classification and the Budapest Treaty on the International Recognition of the Deposit of Microorganisms for the Purposes of Patent Procedure. The news concerning the ratification of the Strasbourg Agreement and the Budapest Treaty was announced through Federal Decrees ...

On January 6, 2021, following several decisions that were issued by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Supreme Council during its 41st meeting on January 5, 2021, an amended GCC Patent Law (Regulation) was approved. In a statement made on its official website, the GCC Patent Office (GCCPO) announced that as of January 6, 2021, it ...

Following a list of decisions issued by the GCC Supreme Council during its 41st meeting on January 5, 2021, the amended GCC Patent Law (Regulation) was approved. In a statement made on its official website, the GCC Patent Office (GCCPO) announced that it is not accepting new patent filings. Meanwhile, filing via the Paris Convention ...

With its significant geopolitical position in South Asia that provides the country with convenient access to the international market, Pakistan is nestled in the cradle of the historical Indus Valley civilization, which dates back at least 5,000 years. Local industries include textiles and apparel, food processing, pharmaceuticals, surgical instruments, construction materials, paper products, fertilizer, and ...

The Middle East and North Africa region, more commonly known as MENA, receives its share of news in the international circuit. Saudi Arabia, for example, has been a steadily growing economy, which with the introduction and implementation of a number of reforms, has seen a sudden boom with the diversification of the economy and further ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) is continuously proving its prowess after it has successfully confiscated and destroyed more than 3.5 million items that were in violation of intellectual property rights. This news was announced on November 9, 2020 and follows the handover of all copyright-related matters, which include the enforcement of said rights, ...

Our annual “Year in Review” feature sums up the most important intellectual property (IP) news and developments that unfolded over the past year in the Middle East, Africa, and their neighboring regions. This past year has been an exceptional one, to say the least. With the pandemic raging across borders and a global lockdown in ...

In compliance with its mandate to unify all intellectual property (IP) related matters under one centralized agency in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) announced the formation of the National Committee for the Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights (NCEIP). In addition to the committee’s various responsibilities that include being in charge of ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) in Saudi Arabia announced that the definition of a trademark has been broadened and now allows the registration of surnames as marks. The SAIP will assess several aspects when examining the trademark application, including but not limited to: If the surname complies with the conditions and formal registration ...

In a legal precedent that rippled through the cyberspace ether, the authorities concerned in Egypt issued a Court decision to shut down online pages selling counterfeits and products bearing infringing trademarks. In addition to having their illicit online stores deactivated, the perpetrators were sentenced to two years in prison and fined 100,000 Egyptian pounds (around ...

After a long respite, the Trademark Office (TMO) in Libya has resumed the publication of trademarks in the Official Gazette, with the inaugural issue being published on September 23, 2020. The first issue of the Official Gazette listed over 200 trademarks that were published for opposition. Any party who believes it may be damaged by ...

Given the recent trend in going paperless around the globe, the Trademark Office in Myanmar announced the upcoming inauguration of its electronic platform for the filing of trademark applications as of October 1, 2020. A soft launch of the new electronic trademark registration system was scheduled for January of this year, but has since been ...

Following the introduction of value added tax (VAT) in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, Oman issued its own draft VAT Law in early September 2020. Once the Law is approved, the VAT will apply to goods and services at the suggested rate of three percent, with some limited exceptions on basic food ...

The Trademark Office (TMO) in Oman announced that all official fees from filing up to registration must now be settled upfront at the time of filing. Should you have any questions, or require any additional information, please contact us news@sabaip.com

As part of the ongoing national campaign to maintain the highest level of consumer protection, Saudi Arabia recently joined the International Cooperation on Cosmetics Regulation (ICCR). By becoming a member of the ICCR, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) will cooperate and enhance trade with its partners on cosmetic products. Saudi Arabia, represented by ...

Saudi Arabia recently ratified its accession to the Strasbourg Agreement Concerning the International Patent Classification. This news follows Saudi Arabia’s accession to three key World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) treaties: the Budapest Treaty, the Locarno Agreement, and Vienna Agreement. By joining these international intellectual property (IP) treaties, specifically with regard to industrial designs, trademarks and ...

In order to circumvent the time barring of actions and missing any deadlines, the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) in Oman announced that right holders must attend to the necessary action for all matters that were due on or after March 24, 2020 by October 8, 2020 at the latest. Should you have any questions, ...

The Patent Office in Jordan announced that patent examination fees for applications filed after December 9, 2018 are due and must be paid within sixty days from the date of notification. This update applies to all pending national and PCT applications that have completed the filing formalities. By way of background, as part of the ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the patent protection scene in the country, Saudi Arabia recently ratified the Budapest Treaty on the International Recognition of the Deposit of Microorganisms for the Purposes of Patent Procedure. With the Treaty in force, the deposit of a microorganism with an International Depositary Authority (IDA) will satisfy the deposit ...

In light of its continuous crackdown on intellectual property infringement and malicious business practices, Saudi Arabia issued a new decision in an effort to curb commercial fraud. New regulations were published in order to assist in eliminating the shady business practices in the country, and such measures include more stringent penalties for offenders of up ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Japan Patent Office (JPO). The MOU aims to facilitate the processing, examination, and registration of applications for patents, industrial designs, and trademarks. It is worth noting that the SAIP and the JPO have been implementing a patent prosecution highway ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) accepted the first sound trademark application in Saudi Arabia, with the sound represented on the application by a musical notation. The application was examined as to form only, and was subsequently registered. By way of background, according to Article 2 of the Gulf Cooperation Council Trademark Law, the ...

We all experienced the event on August 4, 2020 in a terrifying and disturbing manner, and find ourselves grieving as we tend to our wounds—both physical and emotional. We are grateful for the support and kind words from our friends and colleagues across the world. It is especially in these times that we most cherish ...

In the ongoing effort to address the delay in the litigation process, Egypt has been witnessing the issuance of new laws and much-awaited amendments to local legislation. This article offers a brief overview of the highly welcomed ratification of Law No. 146 of 2019 that amends provisions related to Law No. 120 of 2008. The ...

With their sights set to promote local innovation and nurture a creative ecosystem, the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office (TURKPATENT) published a set of guidelines on employee inventions and inventions made in higher education institutions. With the newly minted guidelines in force, the TURKPATENT aims to provide information and guidance about practices related to inventions ...

Qatar recently issued Law No. 10 of 2020 on the Protection of Industrial Designs in an effort to expand the intellectual property scene in the country. Prior to the issuance of the Law, some sort of protection could be sought out by publishing cautionary notices at regular intervals in local Qatari newspapers. Such notices could ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the intellectual property protection scene, Egypt recently approved a grant of EGP 47 million (around USD 2.9 million) from South Korea. This news comes in light of Egypt’s vision to increase cooperation with the international community. The grant is expected to advance the management efficiency at the Egyptian Patent ...

As a much welcomed attempt at improving the intellectual property scene in the country, Cyprus issued the Commercial Trademark Act of 2020. The new Law, along with the Implementing Regulations, were published in the Official Gazette and entered into force in June 2020. In addition to increasing the protection period of trademarks from 7 years ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) recently issued a new set of Implementing Regulations for the compulsory licensing of patents. This update comes in light of SAIP’s mission to lead the national strategy for the promotion of IP, revising and issuing regulations, providing services in a timely and high-quality manner, increasing IP awareness and ...

In their ongoing efforts to enforce intellectual property rights and protect consumers, the Ajman Department of Economic Development (Ajman DED) seized counterfeit synthetic engine oil worth AED 20 million (around USD 5.5 million). Over 100,000 packets of oil bearing trademarks of Saba IP’s multinational clients were discovered by the authorities concerned, much to the chagrin ...

With the establishment of the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP), Saudi Arabia consolidated all intellectual property (IP) departments under one umbrella. The purpose of this newly-minted local entity is to lead the national strategy for the promotion of IP, revising and issuing regulations, providing services in a timely and high-quality manner, increasing IP awareness and ...

In an effort to facilitate and promote investment in the country, the Implementing Regulations of the Franchising Law were published in the Official Gazette by the Ministry of Commerce on May 22, 2020. By way of background, the Law was approved by the Council of Ministers in October 2019 and entered into force in April ...

The Office of the United States Trade Representative published the Special 301 Report in April 2020, reviewing global developments on trade and intellectual property. Countries in the Middle East and North Africa on the Priority Watch List are Algeria and Saudi Arabia. The Watch List includes Egypt, Kuwait Lebanon, and the United Arab Emirates. It ...

Saudi Arabia announced that the value added tax (VAT) rate will be increased to 15 percent from the current rate of 5 percent effective July 1, 2020. By way of background, VAT was introduced in Saudi Arabia in January 2018 and applied to goods and services, with some limited exceptions on basic food items, healthcare, ...

Despite the global lockdown and worldwide social distancing, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) signed a program for exchanging intellectual property data with the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO) on April 22, 2020. The program will provide IP information to the public through the exchange of published and registered IP data in both Saudi ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the intellectual property protection scene in the country, Qatar issued Law no. 10 of 2020 on the Protection of Industrial Designs on April 19, 2020. Prior to the issuance of the Law, protection could be sought out by publishing cautionary notices at regular intervals in local Qatari newspapers. Such ...

In an effort to ensure a regular publication schedule and to streamline the opposition process, trademarks are published online on a monthly basis by the Trademark Office in Zanzibar as of March 1, 2020. Previously, before the introduction of the electronic publication platform at the TMO, the publication of trademark applications was sporadic and infrequent ...

Given the extraordinary nature and consequences of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Intellectual Property Protection Directorate in Qatar (IPO) announced that COVID-19 constitutes a force majeure event. The IPO has already adopted several measures since the beginning of the outbreak, such as reducing the staff to 20 percent and controlling the number of customers ...

Pursuant to Cabinet Decision no. 20 of 2020, the Ministry of Economy in the United Arab Emirates announced a revision in the official fees for a number of services related to intellectual property matters. The reduced fees are significant and cover a range of services, such as trademark applications, registrations, oppositions, assignment recordals, and search ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the intellectual property scene in Egypt, the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade of Egypt announced that it will begin accepting applications for the registration of geographical indications. This is a welcome move since GIs will provide added value to local producers and will provide social upliftment for rural ...

Given the recent trend in going paperless in the region, the Trademark Office in Gaza announced that it is planning on introducing an electronic platform for the filing of trademark applications in the near future. The new process will involve uploading an electronic application to the online system, along with a soft copy of the ...

In compliance with its mandate to unify all IP related matters under one authority, in the latest development, trademarks previously managed by Ministry of Trade and Investment, have now been transferred under the umbrella of the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property. With this update, SAIP showcases its efforts as a self-funded agency with consolidated enforcement ...

As governments begin easing travel restrictions in the wake of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), we are witnessing the reopening of several Intellectual Property Offices in the Middle East and North Africa region. With this update, we want to assure you that our main priority remains to ensure the safety and well-being of our people, families, ...

Dear Colleagues, Clients, and Friends, As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread in our region and across the globe, we want to assure you that our number one priority is the safety and well-being of our people, families, clients, and the communities in which we live and work. Accordingly, we have put measures in ...

In light of the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Kuwait, the Patent and Trademark Office announced that it will temporarily suspend operations until March 26, 2020. In order to ensure the safety of our people and an uninterrupted service, we will be working remotely during office hours. You may continue to send all your instructions ...

The Trademark Office in West Bank announced that a scanned copy of the power of attorney must be submitted at the time of filing, and the legalized POA may be submitted within three months from the filing date. The outgoing procedure did not require submitted a copy of the POA at the time of filing. ...

Following the issuance of Ministerial Decree no. 361 of 2019 that was published on January 5, 2020, the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Kuwait updated the regulations regarding the registration of pharmaceutical products. In line with local legislation, pharmaceutical products must be registered with the MOH before being imported into the Kuwaiti market by local ...

We have been honored with the Prosecution Firm of the Year award for the United Arab Emirates for 2020, conferred during the MIP’s annual Global Awards ceremony that was held in London on March 5, 2020. We are certainly proud to be showcased and celebrated among the best in our industry. Needless to say, our ...

In light of the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Iraq, the Trademark Office announced that it will temporarily suspend operations until March 16, 2020. The TMO, however, will only be processing all renewals and opposition proceedings that fall during this time period. In order to ensure an uninterrupted service, you may continue to send all ...

Egypt ratified its accession to the International Convention for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants, which is known by the acronym UPOV. Egypt became a member of UPOV in December 2019. The filing requirements of a plant variety application in Egypt are as follows: Denomination of the variety Full disclosure of the origin of ...

The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property signed a memorandum of understanding with the China National Intellectual Property Administration. The MOU aims to facilitate the processing, examination and registration of applications for patents, industrial designs, and trademarks. It also expected to foster and develop a bilateral partnership in the field of intellectual property and to strengthen ...

As a much welcomed attempt at improving the enforcement scene in the country, Saudi Arabia announced that patent and copyright disputes will be settled before specialized Commercial Courts as of February 1, 2020. The Commercial Courts, which will be comprised of three judges, will hear infringement and invalidation cases. By resorting to the legal system, ...

In compliance with its mandate to unify all IP related matters under one authority, in the latest development, patents, layout designs of integrated circuits, plant varieties and industrial designs previously managed by King Abdul Aziz City of Science and Technology, have now been transferred under the umbrella of the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property. Furthermore, ...

The Patent and Trademark Office in Tunisia, known by the French acronym INNORPI, announced an increase in the official fees for all trademark matters. The new fees were published in the Official Gazette and will enter into force on January 24, 2020. In related news, INNORPI also alluded to an upcoming increase in the official ...

The General Organization for Export and Import Control, known by the acronym GOEIC, created a new electronic platform for commercial records. The system went online on November 30, 2018. The e-system allows users to instantly access the records of importers, exporters, production requirements, and the register of agents. On the flipside, this tool facilitates that ...

As a much welcomed attempt at improving the litigation scene in the country, Egypt recently ratified Law No. 146 of 2019 that amends provisions related to Law No. 120 of 2008. The new Law amends the Economic Court Law of 2008, which established eight Economic Courts all over Egypt since October 2008. These Courts have ...

In an effort to encourage the creation of art and culture, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property announced the launch of the online optional registration service for copyrights in Saudi Arabia. This comes after the Implementing Regulations of the Copyright Law entered into force on December 23, 2019, which confirm the present procedures in Saudi ...

The Gulf Cooperation Council approved the Trademark Law during the annual summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on December 10, 2019. This update follows the Council’s decision to assign the GCC Financial and Economic Committee the task to accredit and implement the necessary decisions related to the joint action in the field of customs union, including ...

Our annual “Year in Review” feature sums up the most important intellectual property news and developments that unfolded over the past year in the Middle East, Africa, and their neighboring regions. The wireless trend continues to gain more and more traction regionally, as we have been witnessing over the years. Algeria, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, ...

With the upcoming adoption of the new Trademark Law in January 2020, Myanmar is on the verge of a major legal and economic transformation. Under the outgoing Registration Act, brand owners could register a declaration of ownership and publish a cautionary notice for trademarks every three years to obtain some sort of protection. Under the ...

Saudi Arabia ratified its accession to two key World Intellectual Property Organization treaties: the Locarno Agreement and Vienna Agreement. The Locarno Agreement stipulates procedures for establishing, amending and additionally creating international classification for industrial designs. Contracting states in the Middle East and Africa are Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, India, Iran, and Turkey. Saudi Arabia also joined ...

In its continuous efforts to facilitate investment and innovation, the Dubai International Financial Centre enacted a new law governing all aspects of intellectual property within its territory. The DIFC Intellectual Property Law of 2019—which entered into force today, November 21, 2019—recognizes all IP registrations in the United Arab Emirates, including trademarks, patents, copyrights and industrial ...

In an effort to facilitate and promote investment in the country, the Saudi Council of Ministers approved the Franchising Law on October 8, 2019. The Law was published in the Official Gazette on October 25, 2019 and is expected to enter into force on April 25, 2020. The Ministry of Commerce and Investment will be ...

Registering a trademark is the first step in the effective use of a brand, company, or product name. However, in order to safeguard and enforce valuable marks, brand owners must continuously monitor trademark publications to ensure that those potential trademarks do not infringe or potentially damage their existing rights. Monitoring Trademark Publications through a Dedicated ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the intellectual property scene in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property recently signed a patent prosecution highway agreement with United States Patent and Trademark Office. The PPH agreement is expected to foster and develop a bilateral partnership in the field of intellectual property and to strengthen the ...

A total of 407 applications were published in the last three issues of the Official Gazette of Ethiopia (June to August 2019). Almost 60 percent of the applications were filed by foreign owners, mostly Chinese, US, and Swiss. Applications in classes 3, 30, and 35 rank the highest in volume during this period. Ethiopia is ...

Given the recent trend in going paperless, the Trademark Office in the United Arab Emirates announced that, as of October 6, 2019, the following services will be conducted exclusively online: (1) filing an opposition, (2) filing a counterstatement, and (3) issuing all post registration recordal certificates. These e-services, among others provided by the TMO, replace ...

In an effort to encourage the creation of art and culture, the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters recently issued the Implementing Regulations of the Copyright Law. The Implementing Regulations entered into force on July 28, 2019 and are expected to pave the way to a clearer copyright procurement process. Copyright Protection Framework in ...

The Trademark Office in Saudi Arabia recently announced that the definition of a trademark has been broadened and now allows the registration of surnames as marks. The TMO will assess several aspects when examining the trademark application, including but not limited to: If the surname complies with the conditions and formal registration requirements related to ...

As part of the country’s efforts in advancing its IP procurement, Saudi Arabia established the Patent Grievances Committee. Pursuant to Article 35 of the Law of Patents, Layout Designs of Integrated Circuits, Plant Varieties, and Industrial Models, the Committee has the jurisdiction to hear infringement cases, invalidation cases, and allows applicants and interested parties to ...

Pursuant to Cabinet Decision no. 51 of 2019, the Patent Office in the United Arab Emirates has started the implementation of the waiver/reduction in the official fees related to the following services: Annuities Publications Patent restoration Assignment, merger, and licensing Correction of application and amendment of claims Change of representative This news comes in light ...

The Trademark Office in Cyprus upgraded its existing online services on July 15, 2019, bringing improved e-filing and online services for trademarks. The upgraded system benefits users by providing modern, state of the art tools and services for intellectual property offices in the European Union Intellectual Property Network. What you need to know about trademark ...

Egypt recently amended Law no. 82 of 2002 on the Protection of Intellectual Property Rights in an effort to join the UPOV Agreement and change its status from an observer to an active member. Accordingly, these amendments to Book Four of the aforementioned Law, which relates to Plant Varieties, are a continuation of the procedural ...

In the scope of the country’s continuous efforts to create competent border enforcement measures, Jordan signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Japan to enhance the Customs security at the Aqaba Special Economic Zone. The MoU provides the authorities concerned with a grant of around US$15.7 million to update all the X-ray machines used by the ...

In an effort to encourage the creation of art and culture, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property recently issued the Implementing Regulations of the Copyright Law. The Implementing Regulations will enter into force on December 23, 2019 and are expected to pave the way to a clearer copyright procurement process. The Implementing Regulations confirm the ...

A total of 654 applications were published in the last three issues of the Official Gazette of mainland Tanzania (June to August 2019). Publications within the Gazettes are considered sufficient to comply with legal requirements for public notice. Being the largest country in East Africa, mainland Tanzania occupies an unrivaled regional role that is increasing ...

In an effort to promote innovation in the country, the Patent Office in Kuwait announced an update in the fees for all patent related matters. As per Ministerial Decree no. 287 of 2019, the new fees entered into force on July 21, 2019. As a recap on patents in Kuwait, in April 2016, we reported ...

The Patent and Trademark Office in Yemen announced an increase in the official publication fees of trademark, patent, and industrial design applications. The new rates will apply to all applications filed on or after August 8, 2019. By way of background, trademark, patent, and industrial design applications are published in the Official Gazette upon acceptance. ...

Following the recently published and implemented increase in industrial design fees in Tunisia, sources at the Patent and Trademark Office (INNORPI) alluded to an upcoming increase in the official fees for all trademark and patent matters. The new fees, which are expected to increase by 100 percent for trademarks and 30 percent for patents, will ...

Pursuant to Cabinet Decision no. 51 of 2019, the United Arab Emirates announced a revision in the official fees for all services offered by the Ministry of Economy, including those related to intellectual property matters. The revised fees for intellectual property matters affect trademark registration and renewal fees, which have been reduced by 27 percent ...

With an area of 23,200 square kilometers, it is easy to overlook Djibouti on a map. Despite its size, this small country occupies an unrivaled regional role in East Africa that is increasing in significance. Due to the country having the largest deepwater port off of the coast of the Red Sea, Djibouti serves as ...

The Maghreb region, known for its touristic and historical sites, along with its considerable proximity to Europe, has been experiencing its own industrial revolution over the span of the past several years. From West to East, the region includes Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya. With a total population in excess of 90 million, the Maghreb ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the intellectual property scene in the country, India joined three key World Intellectual Property Organization treaties: Nice Agreement, Vienna Agreement and the Locarno Agreement. Although India was already following the Nice Agreement, Vienna Agreement and the Locarno Agreement, the treaties will officially enter into force in India on September ...

The Office of the United States Trade Representative published the Special 301 Report on April 25, 2019, reviewing global developments on trade and intellectual property. The MENA countries on the Priority Watch List are Algeria, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. The Watch List includes Egypt, Lebanon, and the United Arab Emirates. These countries do in fact ...

With interminable shores along the Indian Ocean and a total area of 947,303 square kilometers, Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa occupying an unrivaled regional role that is increasing in significance. Due to its vast natural resources, Tanzania has achieved high growth rates and is experiencing stable economic development. Tanzania encourages foreign investment, ...

Saudi Arabia is located at the convergence of Europe, Asia, and Africa and occupies a regional location of strategic and economic importance for global trade routes and transnational business expansions. And with the status as the world’s largest exporter of petroleum and the country’s relentless commitment to promote a robust economic diversification program, Saudi Arabia ...

The Patent Office in Jordan recently issued a decision relating to the management of patent annuities. For patent applications entered in Jordan via PCT on or after April 22, 2019, annuities due at the time of national filing will include the back annuities accumulated in the international stage. With this new practice, annuities will become ...

With its significant geopolitical position, Pakistan is nestled in the cradle of the historical Indus Valley civilization, which dates back at least 5,000 years. And Pakistan’s location in South Asia provides the country with convenient access to the international market. In an effort to boost development, Pakistan and China are implementing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, ...

In an effort to combat counterfeiting and piracy, Kenya recently laid the groundwork for Customs recordal. Once operational, the recordal will allow the local Anti-Counterfeit Agency to have the authority to stop the importation of counterfeit goods at ports of entry. The recordal, which is valid for the period of one year, will allow the ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the intellectual property protection scene in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property recently ratified two memorandums of understanding, one with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the other with the Korean Intellectual Property Office. The MOUs, which were both signed at the General Assembly of ...

With coasts along the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Morocco occupies a strategic regional position of great importance. The country has made use of its proximity to Europe and its location in North Africa, along with skilled labor, to work towards building a diverse, open, market-oriented economy. Key sectors of Morocco’s economy include agriculture, ...

As more and more patent offices in the Middle East and North Africa region establish themselves as receiving offices for national applicants, the services they provide improve over time. Not surprisingly, the Egyptian Patent Office, which is the only regional International Search Authority and International Preliminary Examination Authority, is offering the possibility for Egyptian nationals ...

In its ongoing efforts to advance the intellectual property scene in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property recently signed a patent prosecution highway agreement with Korean Intellectual Property Office. The PPH agreement is expected to foster and develop a bilateral partnership in the field of intellectual property and to strengthen the relationship between ...

Saudi Arabia recently announced a revision in the official fees for all trademark matters. The new rates will be published in the Official Gazette and will enter into force on the date of publication. It is worth noting that, with the introduction of e-filing for all trademark recordal matters, we saw a significant increase in ...

In April 2018, the European Commission published a report assessing Turkey's political situation, economic development, regional issues, and international obligations. Chapter 7 of the aforementioned study praises Turkey’s progress regarding the alignment of its laws with the European Union’s IP acquis communautaire. The Commission cites Turkey for having a “good level of preparation” and for maintaining ...

The Patent Office in the United Arab Emirates recently designated the Korean Intellectual Property Office as a competent International Searching and Preliminary Examining Authority. This update concerns international applications filed on or after January 6, 2019, by nationals and residents of the UAE with the International Bureau as Receiving Office. By way of background, in ...

In an effort to protect and promote the use of the Arabic language, Qatar issued Law no. 7 of 2019. The Law, which entered into force on January 14, 2019, stipulates that ministries, government agencies, and public institutions are now required to use Arabic in their meetings and discussions. Furthermore, all state legislations, official documents, ...

The Trademark Office in Oman accepted the first sound trademark application in the country, with the sound represented on the application by a musical notation. In fact, according to Article 1 of Royal Decree no 67/2008, any signs capable of being represented graphically, including sounds, provided that such signs are capable of distinguishing the goods ...

The Gulf Cooperation Council comprises the following six countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Historically, these countries and the region at large have been recognized as key suppliers of oil and gas. The economies of the GCC countries were primarily, and in earlier years, based on the export of ...

In an effort to combat the illicit importation goods into the country, Egyptian authorities decreed a set of regulations in March 2016 stipulating that certain imported goods will not legally enter into the market unless the merchandise is authorized by the General Organization for Export and Import Control (GOEIC). As of January 15, 2019, GOEIC ...

The Trademark Office in Kuwait announced that, as of January 20, 2019, the legalized power of attorney must be submitted at the time of filing. Prior to this procedural change, the TMO stipulated that the POA may be submitted within three months from filing date. As for the priority claim, no changes were made to ...

Following the recent publication of the Implementing Regulations of Law no. 1 of 2004 concerning patents and utility models, the Patent Office in Bahrain introduced examination fees and announced an increase in all the official fees relating to patent prosecution. By way of background, the protection term is 20 years from the international filing date, ...

Algeria recently announced a revision in the official fees for all intellectual property matters, including trademarks, patents, and industrial designs. The new rates also apply to examination and the annuity maintenance fees for patents and utility models. The revised official fees entered into force on December 30, 2018. By way of background, Algeria is the ...

With coasts along the Mediterranean basin and a close proximity to Europe, Tunisia occupies a regional position of great importance in North Africa. Tunisia is an export-oriented country that is actively liberalizing and privatizing its economy. The country has a diverse economy, ranging from agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and petroleum products, to tourism. Key exports include ...

The Patent Office in Oman announced that official equivalent patent searches are now possible. Accordingly, it is possible to search the patent database for patent applications filed or entered in Oman using the typical bibliographic data of the priority applications or PCT publications. In case the searches relate to pharmaceuticals patents, the following criteria may ...

Now that the Patent Office in Qatar has been actively examining patent applications and has even issued decisions on several applications, there is a need for applicants and interested parties to have a clear mechanism for appealing or opposing such decisions. As part of the country's efforts in advancing its IP procurement, Qatar issued Ministerial ...

Recently, and after much deliberation, the Patent Office in Qatar issued the Implementing Regulations of the Patent Law. The Implementing Regulations entered into force on July 5, 2018. The long-awaited Implementing Regulations are expected to pave the way to a clearer patent procurement process. The Implementing Regulations confirm the present procedures in Qatar. As such, ...

Federal Law no. 6 of 2018, better known as the Federal Arbitration Law, entered into force in the United Arab Emirates on June 14, 2018. Before that, arbitration, which was commonplace in the UAE despite not having a dedicated law, was governed by Articles 203 to 218 of the Civil Procedures Code of 1992. The ...