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Saudi Arabia: Enhanced IP Landscape with New Designs Law

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 ...

Revisions to IP Fees and Trademark Terms in Lebanon

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, ...

2024-03-08T14:01:26+00:00March 8th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Temporary Trademark Office Opened in Sudan to Facilitate Application Processing

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, ...

2024-03-05T12:35:03+00:00March 5th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Simplifying the Trademark Cancellation Process in Türkiye

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 ...

2024-03-04T11:56:40+00:00March 4th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Morocco: Maximizing Economic Momentum and IP Innovation

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 ...

2024-02-26T06:17:43+00:00February 16th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Myanmar: Navigating New Horizons in the Intellectual Property Landscape

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. ...

2024-02-12T10:12:51+00:00February 12th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Iraq’s Strategic Leap in Intellectual Property: Embracing the PCT System

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, ...

2024-02-06T07:42:46+00:00February 6th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Libya Trademark Update: Electronic Platform Goes Live, Streamlining Processes

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 ...

2024-02-01T16:07:02+00:00February 1st, 2024|Uncategorized|

Fostering Innovation: Safeguarding Intellectual Property for Startups in the MENA

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 ...

2024-02-01T07:28:30+00:00February 1st, 2024|Uncategorized|

From Law to Practice: Libya Rolls Out Long-Awaited Implementing Regulations for 2010 Trademark Act

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 ...

2024-01-23T10:00:32+00:00January 23rd, 2024|Uncategorized|

Gateway to Innovation: Saudi Arabia’s Economic and IP Transformation

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 ...

2024-02-01T07:50:33+00:00January 22nd, 2024|Uncategorized|

Qatar Establishes Grievance Committee for Patent Appeals

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 ...

2024-01-16T09:47:21+00:00January 16th, 2024|Uncategorized|

GCC: Innovation and Patents as Drivers of Growth

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 ...

2024-01-22T12:47:17+00:00January 11th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Qatar: Working Alongside KIPO to Establish National IP Strategy

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 ...

2024-01-11T08:45:28+00:00January 11th, 2024|Uncategorized|

2023 Year in Review

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 ...

2023-12-22T12:27:45+00:00December 15th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Reimagined Remedies: Navigating Second Medical Use in the MENA Landscape

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 ...

2023-12-11T07:29:34+00:00December 11th, 2023|Uncategorized|

UAE Updates Patent Fees: Understanding Ministerial Decision No. 112 of 2023

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 ...

2023-12-05T07:12:48+00:00November 23rd, 2023|Uncategorized|

Saudi Arabia Adopts the 12th Edition of the Nice Classification

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 ...

2023-11-27T13:27:38+00:00November 17th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Protecting Progress: The Paramount Role of Patents in Propelling Innovation

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 ...

2023-11-16T07:59:18+00:00November 16th, 2023|Uncategorized|

A Guide on Trademark Opposition Procedures in the MENA Region

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 ...

2023-11-15T07:19:48+00:00November 15th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Understanding IP Document Legalization in the MENA Region

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 ...

2023-11-09T06:16:43+00:00November 9th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Revamping Dispute Resolution: How the UAE’s Arbitration Reforms Impact the IP Landscape

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 ...

2023-11-07T08:54:41+00:00November 7th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Unlocking Potential in the UAE: A Boon for Franchisers in the Intellectual Property Arena

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, ...

2023-11-03T08:33:33+00:00November 3rd, 2023|Uncategorized|

Navigating Nigeria’s Intellectual Property Landscape: Safeguarding Innovation in Africa’s Vibrant Market

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 ...

2023-10-23T08:56:37+00:00October 23rd, 2023|Uncategorized|

São Tomé and Príncipe Strengthens Intellectual Property Protection with Accession to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement

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, ...

2023-10-10T09:15:54+00:00October 10th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Ethiopia’s Economic Reforms: Intellectual Property Considerations for Global Businesses

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, ...

2023-10-09T06:33:45+00:00October 9th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Rwanda Joins the Budapest Treaty: A New Chapter in Biotech and Intellectual Property in East Africa

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 ...

2023-10-06T07:54:06+00:00October 6th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Bahrain Reduces Patent Fees for Individual Applicants

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 ...

2023-10-03T11:49:02+00:00October 3rd, 2023|Uncategorized|

SAIP and IPOS: Fast-Tracking IP with the Patent Prosecution Highway

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 ...

2023-09-12T06:25:37+00:00September 12th, 2023|Uncategorized|

INPI and OMPIC: Merging Lanes on the PPH Road to Amplified Patent Protection in Morocco

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 ...

2023-09-08T13:17:32+00:00September 8th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Transforming Pakistan’s Intellectual Property Landscape: Key Takeaways from the Trademarks (Amendment) Act of 2023

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 ...

2023-09-06T07:58:47+00:00September 6th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Yemen Adopts the 10th Edition of the Nice Classification for Trademarks

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 ...

2023-08-21T06:21:41+00:00August 17th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Egypt’s New Authority for Intellectual Property: Shaping the Future of Innovation

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 ...

2023-08-14T07:35:36+00:00August 14th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Secure Your Trademarks: South Sudan Reinstates Reservation Process to Safeguard Intellectual Property

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 ...

2023-08-10T06:33:27+00:00August 8th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Understanding the Risks of Third-Party Pirated Software Use for Businesses

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 ...

2023-08-08T07:56:07+00:00August 8th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Unleashing Innovations: The Dynamic Nexus of Technology Transfer and IP

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 ...

2023-08-03T10:19:34+00:00August 3rd, 2023|Uncategorized|

Update: Qatar to Enforce GCC Trademark Law on August 10, 2023

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 ...

2023-07-17T09:18:17+00:00July 17th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Unveiling the Dynamics of Qatar’s Adoption of the GCC Trademark Law

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 ...

2023-08-01T07:16:50+00:00July 12th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Saudi Arabia Approved as an International Search and Examination Authority

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 ...

2023-07-11T07:06:17+00:00July 11th, 2023|Uncategorized|

GCCPO Expands Patent Filing Services to Qatar: Advancing Regional Patent Harmonization

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 ...

2023-07-10T06:54:07+00:00July 10th, 2023|Uncategorized|

TMO in Libya Resumes Operations

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. ...

2023-06-20T07:19:45+00:00June 20th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Oman Implements Progressive Fee Adjustments to Foster Intellectual Property Growth

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 ...

2023-06-01T12:11:17+00:00June 1st, 2023|Uncategorized|

USPTO and OMPIC Collaborate to Accelerate Patent Processing with PPH Program

Exciting news for inventors and innovators! The Moroccan Industrial and Commercial Property Office, known by its French acronym OMPIC, and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) are teaming up to launch a new Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH). The PPH is a special collaboration between different patent offices around the world, with the goal ...

2023-06-01T12:17:53+00:00April 20th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Annuities Go Digital in Kuwait

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 ...

2023-03-09T13:09:08+00:00March 9th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Saba IP and RAK DED: A Winning Partnership for IP Protection

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 ...

2023-02-10T13:39:47+00:00February 10th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Linking the Dots: Navigating the Patent Linkage System in Saudi Arabia

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 ...

2023-02-03T14:02:10+00:00January 13th, 2023|Uncategorized|

Iraq: Sounds Like Arabic

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 ...

2023-01-04T07:19:08+00:00December 28th, 2022|Uncategorized|

Updated Classification of Trademarks and Industrial Designs in Gaza

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 ...

2022-12-27T13:27:23+00:00December 15th, 2022|Uncategorized|

Record or Perish: New Anti-Counterfeiting Measures in Kenya

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 ...

2023-01-18T14:24:50+00:00December 15th, 2022|Uncategorized|

Back to the GCCPO: Patent Updates from Bahrain and Kuwait

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 ...

2023-01-18T13:40:23+00:00December 14th, 2022|Uncategorized|

Saudi Arabia: Apostille Convention Enters into Force

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 ...

2022-12-13T12:52:15+00:00December 12th, 2022|Uncategorized|

2022: Year in Review

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 ...

2022-12-01T08:51:30+00:00December 1st, 2022|Uncategorized|

Establishment of the Egyptian Authority for Intellectual Property

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 ...

2022-12-21T07:57:46+00:00November 24th, 2022|Uncategorized|

Destination East Africa: Protecting IP Rights in Ethiopia

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 ...

2022-11-23T08:51:11+00:00November 23rd, 2022|Uncategorized|

UAE: Legalization No Longer Required for Patent and Design Registration

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 ...

2022-11-23T08:49:14+00:00November 23rd, 2022|Uncategorized|

Destination North Africa: Insights on IP Protection in Egypt, a Country Full of Possibilities

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 ...

2022-09-28T12:10:25+00:00September 28th, 2022|Uncategorized|

MENA: Pointers on Patent Term Extension

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 ...

2022-09-28T12:06:13+00:00September 28th, 2022|Uncategorized|

MENA: Enforcement Measures in an Emerging Region

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 ...

2022-09-28T12:02:18+00:00September 28th, 2022|Uncategorized|

Destination South Asia: IP Protection in Pakistan

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. ...

2022-09-01T07:13:17+00:00September 1st, 2022|Uncategorized|

Morocco: Ratification of the Geneva Act of the Hague Agreement

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 ...

2022-09-01T07:10:41+00:00September 1st, 2022|Uncategorized|

SAIP Signs New PPH Agreement with EPO

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 ...

2022-09-01T07:03:55+00:00September 1st, 2022|Uncategorized|

Destination Africa: What You Need to Know About Ghana

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 ...

2022-07-28T09:04:19+00:00July 28th, 2022|Uncategorized|

Turkey Cracks Down on Infringers

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 ...

2022-07-28T08:54:57+00:00July 28th, 2022|Uncategorized|

All Aboard the ARIPO Train, Next Stop Cabo Verde

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 ...

2022-07-01T07:01:57+00:00July 1st, 2022|Uncategorized|

Smooth Sailing: New Customs Measures in Kenya

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 ...

2022-07-01T06:43:44+00:00July 1st, 2022|Uncategorized|

The Ball is in Your Court: Settling Intellectual Property Disputes in Qatar

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 ...

2022-07-01T06:58:36+00:00July 1st, 2022|Uncategorized|

Copy That: Copyright Protection is in Saudi Arabia

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 ...

2022-07-01T06:37:06+00:00July 1st, 2022|Uncategorized|

Decrease in Trademark Publication Fees in Saudi Arabia

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 ...

2022-07-01T06:22:33+00:00July 1st, 2022|Uncategorized|

UAE: Updated Requirements for Filing Patent Applications

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 ...

2022-07-01T06:17:22+00:00July 1st, 2022|News|
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