Afghanistan: Trademark Examiners Workshop Renewals
On January 26th, CLDP, in close cooperation with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), conducted a 2-hour webinar for the Afghanistan Central Business Registry Trademark Directorate (TMD) on the concept of trademark (TM) renewals as one of the key elements to securing and maintaining TM rights. USPTO experts presented a comprehensive tutorial, and Afghan officials actively participated in the discussion citing certain aspects of Afghan TM law and raised questions relating to past and current issues before the TMD. Through discussion and case study examples, this webinar enhanced the thoroughness, accuracy and efficiency of the TMD in evaluating TM registration renewal applications consistent with global best practices, including the Madrid Protocol and interacting with the TM owner to assure timely renewals. The next session is planned for February 23rd and will focus on amendments to TM applications. Subsequent seminars will address other key subjects, including opposition and cancellation proceedings, and ownership transfers.