Pipers Bulletins
Pipers regularly issues bulletins providing a summary of recent developments in intellectual property law and practice in Australasia and other key countries and regions such as USA, UK, Europe and Asia. Below are links to articles in the latest bulletin. Previous issues can be accessed via the left pane navigation.
Contents Summary of Latest Bulletin
1. General
General
Turning Ideas into Assets: Practical Insights for SMEs and Startups
Eureka! – you’ve just had an idea with promising business / income potential – perhaps it is for a new product, an innovative method of manufacture, a paint formulation, an eye-catching product shape, catchy song lyrics, or a distinctive and memorable brand name.
2. Patents
China - New Zealand
IPONZ and CNIPA launch Patent Prosecution Highway Programme
IPONZ has announced that it has entered a bilateral Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) agreement with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) with effect from 1st November 2024.
Europe – New Zealand
Patent Prosecution Highway Between New Zealand and European Patent Office Now in Effect
The Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) and the European Patent Office (EPO) have entered into a 3-year trial Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) agreement with effect from 1st December 2024.
PCT
Uruguay Joining PCT in 2025
From 7th January 2025 Uruguay (UY) will be bound by the PCT. Hence, international applications filed on or after 7th January 2025 will automatically designate Uruguay.
3. Trade Marks
General
Comparison of Trade Mark Protection Measures Provided by Online Marketplace Platforms
Over the last couple of decades increasing amounts of consumer spending has occurred through online marketplace platforms. While online marketplace platforms have provided many benefits for brand owners, the platforms have also been embraced by counterfeiters.
United States of America
USPTO Trademark Fee Changes Effective in Early 2025
In early 2025 the USPTO will apply 28 fee changes to its fee schedule, including 7 new fees and removing 4 current fees.