On August 11, 2023, Pakistan’s President Arif Alvi gave his assent to the Trade Mark Amendments Act 2023, which amends the Trade Marks Ordinance 2001.
In particular, the Trade Mark Amendment Act 2023 introduces a chapter on “International Registration of Trade Marks” under the Madrid Protocol. Pakistan acceded to the Madrid Protocol on February 24, 2021, and ratified it on May 24, 2021.
The said chapter includes detailed provisions in connection with the processing of applications under the Madrid Protocol, either originating from Pakistan or where Pakistan has been designated.
“The chapter provides the much-needed legislative framework for trademark filings under the Madrid System. Additionally, the chapter – particularly under Section 92I – exempts extracts from the international register issued by the International Bureau from any legalization in Pakistan,” said Sana Shaikh Fikree, senior associate at Vellani & Vellani in Karachi. Read more