By Stephen D. Wilson | March 2, 2021

Effective May 24, 2021, U.S. brand owners will have an additional option to protect trademarks in Pakistan under an international intellectual property (IP) treaty.

Islamic Republic of Pakistan

 On February 24, 2021, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan deposited its instrument of accession to the Madrid Protocol with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva, Switzerland, becoming the 108th member of the Madrid System for the International Registration of Marks (Madrid System).  The Madrid Protocol will enter into force for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on May 24, 2021.

Madrid System

The Madrid System for the International Registration of Marks (Madrid System) is a trademark treaty that covers more than 120 countries, representing more than 80% of world trade.  The Madrid System is governed by the Madrid Agreement and the Protocol relating to that Agreement (Madrid Protocol).  The Madrid Union is made up of Contracting Parties to the Madrid Agreement and the Madrid Protocol.

Global Brand Protection

Brand owners who wish to protect their trademarks beyond U.S. borders should consult with experienced trademark counsel to develop and implement international brand protection strategies and avoid loss of foreign rights and priority.

Beggs & Lane assists clients worldwide with global IP protection and brand portfolio management, including U.S. and international trademark registration, licensing, and enforcement.