A Milestone in Intellectual Property Collaboration: SAIP and OMPIC Launch Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH)
On April 23, 2024, the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) and the Moroccan Industrial and Commercial Property Office (OMPIC) embarked on a significant collaboration with the inauguration of a pilot program. This momentous initiative, formalized through a signed agreement, establishes a Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) between the two esteemed organizations.
The PPH program fosters a spirit of cooperation between patent offices, aiming to expedite the often-lengthy process of patent application approval. Through the strategic exchange of examination results, this collaborative effort seeks to achieve a two-fold benefit: a reduction in processing times for patent applications, coupled with an enhancement in the quality of patents ultimately granted.
Beyond the signing of this landmark agreement, a fruitful dialogue unfolded between SAIP and OMPIC, exploring a broader spectrum of collaborative projects. These discussions centered around a vibrant exchange of knowledge, encompassing the latest advancements in the realm of industrial property within each nation. Additionally, valuable experiences and best practices were shared, pertaining to the management and examination of applications for industrial property protection. Notably, both offices acknowledged the importance of raising awareness among enterprises regarding the significance of safeguarding and respecting intellectual property rights. This commitment extends to fostering activities that promote such understanding.
Looking ahead, SAIP and OMPIC have pledged to expand their collaborative endeavors into uncharted territories, venturing into the exciting fields of artificial intelligence and information and communication technology. This expansion signifies a resolute dedication to fostering innovation and propelling progress within both nations.
Increases in the official fees Turkey
The Turkish Patent and Trademark Office (TÜRKPATENT) has implemented a revised schedule of official fees for patents, utility models, trademarks, and designs, effective from April 24, 2024. This revision is outlined in the “Notification Regarding Schedule of Fees to be applied in 2024 by the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office” (the “Notification”), published in the Official Gazette on the same date.
The Notification signifies a comprehensive adjustment to the official fee structure. Notably, it encompasses not only fees previously subject to January 2024 increase, but also services that remained unchanged.
Furthermore, the Notification establishes, for the first time, an official fee for administrative cancellation procedures of trademarks initiated by TÜRKPATENT, effective January 10, 2024.
Revised Official Fees for Intellectual Property Services in Aden, Yemen:
It is hereby announced that an increase in the official fees associated with the main trademark services in Aden, Yemen has been implemented effective April 28, 2024 which encompasses a broad spectrum of intellectual property (IP) services pertaining to trademarks. Meanwhile, it is crucial to note that the increased fees are already being applied without any prior official notification or grace period provided by the Intellectual Property Office or the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
Temporary Suspension of Online Certificate Issuance in Nigeria
A recent official notification dated the 4th of April 2024 was issued by the Trademarks Registrar of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) in Nigeria regarding the temporary suspension of online certificate issuance.
The Trademarks Registrar is currently undergoing a system migration and upgrade of its online platform. During this process, duplicate registration Trademarks Numbers (RTN) were identified. As a result, the Certificate Unit has suspended the printing of online certificates until this issue is rectified.
The Trademarks Registrar has not provided a specific timeframe for when online certificate printing will resume. Therefore, we will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
Should you have any questions, or require any additional information, please contact us at info@jahcoip.com