Prosecution

Angola continues to recognise IP rights as an important contribution to a country’s social and economic development and in the last IP Bulletin issued (4/2023), published statistics related to the years 2020 to 2022.

Overall, 2022 was marked by an increase in the request for protection of several rights of Industrial Property, where the demand levels for trademarks and other distinctive signs of trade were 23% higher than those recorded in 2021.

Tattoos are a form of artistic expression deeply rooted in human culture and are unquestionably works of art created by talented artists.

Each design is often customised to reflect the history, beliefs, culture, and personal tastes of the individual receiving it. Like any other form of art, tattoos are crafted with skill and imagination.

However, as tattoos gain recognition as an art form, a complex legal question arises: do tattoo artists hold copyright over their creations, and can they protect their designs from unauthorised reproduction or use?

The National Institute of Industrial Property of Angola (IAPI) has expanded its coverage, and since October 30, 2023, it has started to use and accept the list of terms from the Harmonized Database of Product Indications (HDBPI) in DesignClass, as well as the list of terms from the Harmonized Database for brand classification (HDB) in TMClass.

DesignClass/HDBPI allows for the searching and translation of product indications in 30 languages, while TMClass/HDB enables the searching and translation of classification terms in 37 languages.

Tiago Reis Nobre and Vítor Palmela Fidalgo represented our firm at the AIPPI 2023 World Congress in Istanbul. Throughout the four-day event, both actively engaged in numerous sessions spanning a wide range of IP topics. They connected with peers and friends from all over the globe, discussing the latest developments in IP from Europe and Africa.

Additionally, they had the chance to visit the ARIPO booth, where Inventa is proud to be a co-exhibitor, and was graciously hosted by Mr. John Marius Kagwa.

Product placement in Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, presents a growing opportunity for brands and filmmakers. Acknowledged as a significant catalyst for brand recognition within the country, Vera Albino's analysis of this partnership also underscores the critical role of tailored legislation by Nigerian authorities.

Read here the full article. 

It is with pride that we share that Vitor Sérgio Moreira, Patent Manager at Inventa, has been recognized in the IP Stars ranking as a Notable Practitioner in Portugal.

IP Stars ranking is one of the leading directories that assess experienced firms and legal professionals in the categories of trademarks and contentious work in the field of Intellectual Property.

We also want to congratulate the other professionals recognized for their work!

Patents are legal instruments designed to safeguard IP and encourage innovation, as they grant patent owners exclusive rights to their inventions for a determined period, fostering an environment in which research and development can flourish.

Biological and genetic resources are often researched and collected, and the knowledge derived is applicable to useful products in several industry fields, such as agriculture, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

We are pleased to announce the members of the Inventa team who have been appointed to the 2024-2025 term of the International Trademark Association (INTA) Committees.

Over the next two years, they will have the opportunity to contribute their experience, collaborate with industry leaders, and reflect on policies that have a global impact within the international trademark community.

Know more About INTA Committees. 

The latest edition of The Legal 500: Intellectual Property Comparative Guide is now available, making it possible to explore the contribution of Vitor Palmela Fidalgo and João Pereira Cabral regarding Intellectual Property laws and regulations applicable in Portugal.

On August 2, 2023, the government of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe deposited its instrument of accession to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on Appellations of Origin (AOs) and Geographical Indications (GIs), which will enter into force on November 2, 2023.