International trade mark protection
If you are going to market products and/or services in markets outside Sweden, it is important that you apply for international trade mark protection. Not only to secure the intellectual property rights to what you sell, but also to not risk unknowingly infringing an already registered foreign trade mark.
What does international trade mark protection involve?
International trademark protection, just like trade mark protection in Sweden, is about ensuring the exclusive rights of use for things that specifically characterize your particular products or services. For example, it can be a specific logo, a font, a product design, or a signature sound.
Since a Swedish trade mark registration only applies within Sweden, it is important that you apply for international trade mark protection if you intend to sell your goods or services on foreign markets. It is also important to obtain trade mark protection in the country where you may manufacture.
The application can be made in three different ways depending on whether you wish to protect your trade mark in one country alone, within the EU, or globally.
Different registration requirements for different countries
International trade mark protection is obtained by registering your trade mark in the foreign market or markets on which you are going to market your goods and/or services. The application process is quite similar in most markets, but some countries have their own specific requirements for who is permitted to register a trade mark and the process involved. For example, you may need to have a partner or other local contact in the country, which understandably takes time to establish and makes it a difficult requirement to meet.
PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS
How to protect your brand abroad
Depending on where you wish to obtain trade mark protection for your products or services, your application should be sent to different authorities.
Helpful information about trade mark protection abroad
- International trade mark protection can be obtained in the countries and intergovernmental organisations that are parties to the Madrid Protocol.
- Your international trade mark registration is linked to your Swedish registration for five years from the date it takes effect. This means that any changes in your Swedish registration – the so-called basic registration or application – also affect the international registration for your trade mark. Examples of changes can be a new list of goods or services, or if trade mark protection is terminated.
- Trademark protection outside of Sweden can only be obtained if there is not already a similar or identical registered trade mark in the markets and within the trademark classes you are applying for.
We can help you protect your trade mark internationally
Do you want help applying for trade mark protection outside of Sweden? Get in touch with us at Abion. Our trade mark experts can be of service with everything from a preliminary investigation to application and further management of your approved trade mark registration.
FAQ about international trade mark protection
What should one consider when purchasing a Singaporean domain?
You must have a local contact in Singapore to be able to purchase a .sg domain. Furthermore, it is also important that the other registration conditions are met.
What does a .sg domain cost?
The price for a .sg domain can vary based on registration length, number of domains, and any additional services. Please contact us for a tailored price proposal for a .sg domain.
What should you consider when buying an American domain?
For an approved .us domain registration, your domain name must meet all technical restrictions and registration requirements. You must also meet the requirement of a connection to the USA.
Why should one have a .sg domain?
A Singaporean domain is good if you are going to establish yourself in Singapore. You become more visible to Singaporean customers, clarify your geographical relevance, and strengthen your brand protection.
How do you get a .sg domain?
You can easily get a .sg domain with us at Abion. We collaborate with an approved registrar and are happy to assist you throughout the entire process.
Do you want to know more about international trade mark protection?
Contact us and we’ll tell you more!