First to file rule – How to solve a conflict filed on the same date
The Japan Trademark Law follows “fi…
Articles by Masaki MIKAMI
Changes in Amounts of Individual Fees for Japan: Madrid Protocol
The Japan Patent Office (JPO) has d…
Can Slogans be Trademarks?
Properly marketed slogans, product …
The Appeal Board overruled examiner decision to negate inherent distinctiveness of a mark consisting of landscape painting.
Applied mark consists of a landscap…
The IP High Court ruled registered mark “KIRIN” is used independently regardless of promotional campaign named as “KIRIN Plus-i”
On November 7, 2016, the IP High Co…
YouTube social icon serves to function as a source indicator of hosting service via internet due to inherent distinctiveness.
On September 23, the Appeal Board a…
“ROYAL PRESTIGE NEO” is decided similar to “ROYAL PRESTIGE” (JPO Appeal No. 2015-5083)
The Appeal Board of the JPO decided…
“AQUA COLLAGEN GEL” is not a descriptive term, but a source indicator by means of acquired distinctiveness.
On October 27, 2016, the IP High Co…
Can shape of goods be protected under the Unfair Competition Prevention Law?
Imitation of training chopsticks Pl…
The IP High Court refused a word mark “HOKOTABAUM” due to lack of inherent distinctiveness
In a dispute regarding distinctiven…