The Office for Harmonization in the Internal Market (Trade Marks and Designs) (OHIM) (the European equivalent of our IP Australia) has abolished the registration fee previously required to be paid directly to OHIM after a trade mark application had been examined and approved. The registration fee generally costs between US$1,500 and US$2,000 (depending on the exchange rate at the time) and its abolition represents a reduction of up to 40% in OHIM's official fees.
This change signifies a potential cost saving to business owners who are seeking to register their trade marks in the European Community. A European Community Trade Mark application applies to 27 European Community member states.
Businesses now have the opportunity to receive a great benefit, both in terms of cost and time savings, by applying for a European Community Trade Mark which offers the same level of protection as filing a separate national trade mark application in each country within the European Community.
Now is an opportune time for businesses that supply goods or services in Europe to take advantage of the significant reduction in application fees and consider registering their trade mark/s in the European Community.
The Hall & Wilcox
Intellectual Property team has extensive experience in registering trade marks and brand protection more generally, both in Australia and globally.
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