Region: Asia-Pacific

Goods in transit: does it amount to infringement?

In a ruling that will have significant implications for trademark owners and would-be infringers, the Intellectual Property High Court of Kuala Lumpur has broadened the concept of “use in the course of trade” to include goods in transit.

04 July 2024

How to manage the surge in counterfeit automotive parts in Southeast Asia

Rouse lawyers break down the reasons for a surge in counterfeit automotive parts in Southeast Asia and discuss how brand owners can tackle the growing problem.

03 July 2024

Don’t let digital barriers block access to IP: why registries must prioritise web accessibility

Digital barriers must be overcome or they risk alienating users from the IP ecosystem, warns this week's Saturday opinion column.

29 June 2024

WIPO tops ranking of world’s most accessible IP office websites, but overall momentum to assist users slows

Exclusive WTR research reveals the national IP offices with the most (and least) accessible websites for users, with WIPO leading the way.

28 June 2024

Dust settles on five-year Nestlé dispute over A2 mark

This dispute between Nestlé and A2 Milk serves as a valuable example of how the Chinese courts will assess distinctiveness.

28 June 2024

Hong Kong: How customs is boosting enforcement

Featured in Anti-counterfeiting and Online Brand Enforcement: Global Guide 2024

As Hong Kong is a strategic hub for shipping counterfeit goods, rights holders must be vigilant when it comes to policing the market for infringement. Open communication with customs is proving the most efficient way to safeguard their brand against counterfeiters, as operations at the border are renowned for their efficiency.

28 June 2024

Specialised IP Court proposed under draft law on court organisation

If enacted, the proposal promises to offer specialised and consistent adjudication of IP cases, ultimately benefitting stakeholders.

27 June 2024

Asia-Pacific filing decline continues; Russian applicants turn to WIPO: data analysis

WTR analyses trademark filing trends at major Asia-Pacific registers.

26 June 2024

IP Court provides guidance on trademark use in non-use cancellation actions

The decision sets forth some criteria to determine whether goods or services should be considered the same or equivalent.

25 June 2024

Responding to online counterfeiters within the context of social media in China

Featured in Anti-counterfeiting and Online Brand Enforcement: Global Guide 2024

While China’s E-Commerce Law has clarified platform and e-commerce operators’ legal obligations in the fight against counterfeiting, how to determine whether these responsibilities are being fulfilled remains unclear. Therefore, rights holders must be proactive in monitoring potential infringers to prevent them capitalising on their brand image.

24 June 2024