Brief Report on IPO/JPO Event on Trademarks

The IPO/JPO event on trademarks was held on March 21, 2025, at National Law University, Delhi, starting at 10:30 AM. This event served as a crucial platform for knowledge exchange between the Indian and Japan trademark offices, focusing on trademark filing, registration, examination, and legal doctrines.

The event began with an inaugural address by Prof. (Dr.) Unnat P. Pandit, Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks, who emphasized the significance of exchange programs in strengthening international cooperation.

The first session, led by India TM Registry Official, covered the general procedure for trademark filing and registration in India. He explained the stages of filing, online and offline procedures, substantive examination, examination reports, opposition procedures, and the PARM section. Delegates from the Japan Patent Office (JPO) actively participated in discussions, seeking clarity on various aspects of Indian trademark examination.

Another such session was from TM Registry focused on well-known trademarks and bad faith trademarks. He discussed their legal foundations under Indian law, significant case laws, and how Indian courts determine bad and good faith in trademark filings. This session led to engaging discussions on trademark adjudication in both countries.

The midsession was presented by JPO delegate, where he provided insights into the organizational structure and trademark examination system in Japan. He explained how JPO examiners specialize in industry-based categories and highlighted key initiatives for efficient examination, including outsourcing database management and quality control measures. He also discussed how JPO addressed the issue of pendency by recruiting additional examiners.

Conclusion:

The IPO/JPO event was highly informative and fostered valuable discussions on trademark policies and legal frameworks. The exchange of knowledge helped clarify procedural and legal differences between India and Japan, enhancing mutual understanding. More such collaborative programs will further strengthen trademark examination and protection mechanisms in both countries.