Domestic trade marks can now be partially replaced by international registrations. Even where only some of the goods and services are listed in the domestic registration, this will still be possible.
Previously, the regulations only allowed replacement when the international registration covered all the goods and services listed in the domestic registration.
This change is a result of Rule 21 of the Madrid Protocol Regulations. Obligations that these create come into force on 1 February 2025. The UK has moved to update its regulations early, and the amendments to the Trade Marks (International Registration) Order 2008 are implemented from 21 November 2024.
How does this affect trade mark holders?
The rule changes mean that if you are a trade mark holder you will now be able to:
- Replace your UK trade mark registration with an international registration that covers fewer goods and services.
- Maintain protection for those goods and services that are not covered by your international registration via your existing UK registration.
