Trademark

Refused in Japan because of a similar earlier mark? Since April 1, 2024, a consent letter from the earlier owner can overcome an Article 4(1)(xi) refusal. A Japanese patent attorney explains the two requirements, documents, Madrid cases and limits.

Japan's trademark Fast Track examination has been suspended since fiscal 2022. A Japanese patent attorney explains how it worked, why it stopped, how it differed from accelerated examination, and what foreign applicants can do now to get a faster result.

A Japanese patent attorney explains Japan's intent-to-use requirement (Trademark Act Art. 3(1)), the 22-similar-group rule, Class 35 retail service refusals, and how foreign applicants can respond with evidence or amendments.

A Japanese patent attorney explains how to change the applicant of a pending Japanese trademark application (assignment, merger, company split), the documents foreign companies need, the JPY 4,200 official fee and key timing rules.

Missed the renewal deadline for your Japanese trademark? A Japanese patent attorney explains the late-renewal grace period, the "not intentional" restoration system, deadlines, the JPY 86,400 fee and cases that are refused.

A Japanese patent attorney explains why foreign companies should register their company or brand name as a trademark in Japan, when to file, word vs. logo, and official fees.

A Japanese patent attorney explains logo trademarks in Japan for overseas brands: the three logo types, separate applications, kanji logos, official fees and what to file first.

A Japanese patent attorney explains 3D trademarks in Japan: registrable and non-registrable shapes, acquired distinctiveness, functional shapes, filing requirements and the link with design rights.

A Japanese patent attorney explains how SaaS and app companies should choose trademark classes in Japan: class 9 vs 42, cross-class similarity, and extra classes like 35, 36 and 41.

A Japanese patent attorney explains trademark risks in OEM/ODM deals for Japan: factories, distributors and agents filing your brand, Article 53-2 remedies, and checklists for brand owners and factories.