Indatex Academy
Trademark Protection GuideTrademark Protection
Safeguard your brand identity in global markets
Trademark Protection Overview
A trademark is a vital component of your brand's identity, distinguishing your products or services in the marketplace. Protecting it through registration with national and international intellectual property organizations is essential to maintain your competitive edge.
What is a trademark?
A distinctive element
A trademark is a unique sign, such as a word, name, logo, or combination, that personalizes your products or services, enhancing your market presence.
A key marketing tool
Trademarks differentiate your offerings from competitors, shaping consumer perception and reinforcing brand reputation. Choosing the right trademark is crucial for success in export markets.
Counterfeiting risks
Registering your trademark is critical to prevent counterfeiting, which can damage your brand's image and market position.
How to register a trademark internationally?
Your needs
Trademarks are territorial rights. To protect your brand abroad, international registration is necessary. Decide the number of target countries to choose the best filing method.
Filing locally
For one or a few countries, file directly with national intellectual property offices. Check WIPO's directory for global IP offices.
Filing regionally
For multiple countries in a region, file with a regional IP organization for streamlined registration and uniform protection across member states.
International filing
For global coverage, use the Madrid System, managed by WIPO, covering 96 member countries.
Madrid System Details
Protection is valid unless refused by a country's trademark office within a specified period, equivalent to direct registration.
Priority Period
Under Article 4 of the Paris Convention, a six-month priority period allows filing in other member countries using the first filing date.
What to check before you start?
Availability
A trademark must be distinctive, lawful, and available. Verify availability using WIPO's resources: