Qatar has joined the Madrid Protocol
29 August 2024
Qatar joined the Madrid Protocol on 3 May 2024, which came into force as of 3 August 2024. Qatar is the 115th member of the Madrid System.
The Madrid System provides the legal framework for the protection of trade marks internationally; by filing a single application and paying one set of fees, applicants can apply for protection of their trade mark in up to 131 countries, which now includes Qatar.
This ascension marks the fourth of the six Gulf countries to become members of the Madrid Protocol, joining Bahrain, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. This is significant progress for trade mark holders who wish to gain protection in the Middle East, where it can often be more expensive to file national applications.
As of 3 August 2024, the owners of existing international trade mark registrations may apply for a subsequent designation to extend the geographical scope of their registration to Qatar, and new international applications will be able to apply for protection in Qatar from the outset. Additionally, Qatari entities that have or have applied for national trade mark protection can now use the Madrid System to seek protection of their brand in the 131 countries that are part of the Madrid System.
Whilst each country designated in an international application will be subject to examination nationally according to local trade mark law and practice, as with a national application, the filing of an international application to cover multiple territories, and the subsequent maintenance and renewal of the resulting international registration can be a worthwhile, cost-effective, and practical addition to a trade mark portfolio.
Withers & Rogers LLP are experts in prosecuting international trade marks around the world. If you are interested in protecting your brand in multiple territories, please contact one of our trade mark attorneys.
Jasmine Stevendale
Trade Mark group
This publication is a general summary of the law. It should not replace legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
© Withers & Rogers LLP August 2024
