Mauritius Embraces Global Trademark and Design Protection: Madrid Protocol and Hague System

This article, authored by Paul Baker, Pablo Quiles, and Smita Bheenick, was originally published on Mondaq.

In a significant development for intellectual property rights, Mauritius has adopted the Madrid Protocol and the 1999 Geneva Act of the Hague Agreement, effective from May 6, 2023. Led by International Economics Consulting Ltd, the move allows businesses and individuals in Mauritius to apply for international trademark protection through the Madrid System, covering 129 jurisdictions, and register industrial designs in 96 countries via the Hague System.

The Madrid Protocol streamlines the process for trademark registration, enabling cost-effective protection globally with a single application. Trademark holders in countries part of the Madrid System can also choose to protect their trademarks in Mauritius. The application requirements include specifying the mark, goods or services, and designated jurisdictions.

Additionally, the 1999 Geneva Act of the Hague Agreement simplifies the protection of industrial designs by allowing applicants to register up to 100 designs in 96 countries through a single application. The process also extends to Mauritius, enabling design registration for applicants based in Hague System countries.

By adopting these treaties, Mauritius strengthens its intellectual property rights protection, attracting international businesses and investments. Moreover, it facilitates innovation and creativity by safeguarding trademark and design rights across a broader international landscape through a straightforward process. For more in-depth insights, we invite you to read the full article.