Originally published December 18, 2008
Keywords: Department of Intellectual Property, DIP, Thailand, Madrid Protocol, Madrid Agreement, International Registration of Marks, Paris Convention, Protection of Industrial Property
Summary
Under the guidance of the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP), preparations are underway for Thailand to join the Madrid Protocol relating to the Madrid Agreement concerning the International Registration of Marks ("Madrid Protocol").
Full Update
Currently, Thai trademark applicants are required to make individual applications to register their marks in each of the countries where registration is sought. Entry to the Madrid Protocol will mean that Thai trademark applicants can acquire international registration in several countries by submitting a single application to the Registration Office in Thailand.
Thailand has taken several significant steps to qualify for the Madrid Protocol and to prepare for the implementation of the new procedures.
On 2 August 2008, Thailand ratified the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property in order to qualify for a place under the Madrid Protocol umbrella.
In addition, DIP proposed a Trademark Amendment Bill. If passed, this Bill would harmonise domestic laws with Madrid Protocol regulations.
A Working Group has been set up by the DIP to study Thailand's accession to the Madrid Protocol and the DIP is also providing education to trademark officers, business operators and the general public about Madrid Protocol procedures. The DIP Information Technology System is also being developed to facilitate communication with WIPO.
As a member of ASEAN, Thailand is required to become a signatory to the Madrid Protocol by 2015.
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