UAE brand owners with business interests abroad or who have plans to expand internationally must utilize the benefits of the Madrid Protocol. The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty that allows for the registration of trademarks in multiple countries through a single application process. The UAE joined the Madrid Protocol on September 28th 2021 allowing local brand owners to get trademark protection in more than 125 countries through a single application, in a single language and a single set of fees.
Mauritius is the latest country to join the Madrid Protocol, making it easier for businesses to protect their trademarks in that country. However, you need to analyze how the joining of Mauritius will affect the business of your brand. You should also think about whether you should register a trademark in Mauritius through the Madrid Protocol. This blog offers a comprehensive answer to all such questions. Furthermore, trademark agents in the UAE can assist you with extending your scope of protection to Mauritius through the Madrid Protocol.
Here are some key things you should know about Mauritius joining the Madrid Protocol:
When did Mauritius join the Madrid Protocol?
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) announced that Mauritius has deposited its instrument of accession to the Madrid Protocol on 6 February 2023. The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty that provides a simplified and cost-effective way for businesses to protect their trademarks in multiple countries. It allows trademark owners to file a single application with the WIPO and designate multiple member countries where they want to protect their trademarks. Trademark agents in the UAE can help you extend the scope of trademark protection to Mauritius.
How does Mauritius joining the Madrid Protocol affect UAE brand owners?
Mauritius joining the Madrid Protocol means that the UAE trademark owners can now include Mauritius in their international trademark applications filed through WIPO. This will make it easier and more cost-effective for businesses to protect their trademarks in Mauritius.
What are the requirements?
To file an international trademark application under the Madrid Protocol, the applicant must have a basic trademark application or registration in their home country or country of origin. The application must also designate at least one member country where protection is sought. The application is then examined and registered by WIPO, and the designated member countries have the opportunity to refuse protection if they have any objections.
How to protect my trademark in Mauritius?
If you want to protect your trademark in Mauritius under the Madrid Protocol, you should file an international trademark application through WIPO and designate Mauritius as a member country where protection is sought. You can do this either as part of an initial international application or by adding Mauritius to an existing international registration. It is important to work with a qualified trademark attorney or agent who can guide you through the process and ensure that your application meets all the necessary requirements.
Existing Users can Request a Subsequent Designation
If you have already used the Madrid Protocol for obtaining trademark protection in numerous jurisdictions, you may designate Mauritius in your application through a process called subsequent designation. You don’t need to file a fresh trademark application. You only need to submit a request for adding Mauritius as a subsequent designation in your international trademark registration. Trademark agents in the UAE can advise you on how to perform subsequent designations.
What are the benefits of the Madrid Protocol?
The main benefit of the Madrid Protocol is that it allows trademark owners to protect their trademarks in multiple countries through a single application process. This can save time and money compared to filing separate applications in each country where protection is sought. Additionally, the Madrid Protocol provides a centralized system for managing and renewing trademark registrations.
Hire the Best Trademark Agents in the UAE
Even though the Madrid Protocol is cost-efficient, you have to determine whether it’s the right IP protection method for you. Before choosing the Madrid Protocol, you can consult with trademark agents in the UAE such as Jitendra Intellectual Property (JIP) to determine whether you should opt for the Madrid Protocol or not. JIP’s trademark agents are highly qualified and are in a better position to advise you on the Pros & Cons of the Madrid Protocol System.
JIP is one of the leading IP firms in Dubai with years of experience. We have helped out thousands of businesses to establish their brands across the UAE and other countries. JIP provides robust trademark services in Dubai such as trademark search, trademark watch and trademark renewals. Book a consultation with us to determine how to elevate your brand to the next level with adequate IP protection.