Trademarks

Inventa attended the INTA Annual Meeting 2024, hosted by the International Trademark Association, from May 18 to May 22, 2024. This event brought together leaders and IP legal experts from around the globe, featuring cutting-edge legal and business discussions, along with various professional development activities.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the largest countries in Africa in terms of land area and population. Despite challenges, it has significant potential for economic growth and development. Efforts to improve governance, invest in infrastructure, promote diversification, harness the country’s natural resources more sustainably and update IP legislation could contribute to unlocking this potential and positioning DRC as one of Africa’s leading economies.

A trademark stands as a vital pillar of intellectual property, safeguarding an owner's rights to their goods and services from unjust replication by third parties. Primarily, trademark laws aim to empower businesses by enabling them to register their trademarks, thereby granting exclusive usage rights to the proprietor, preventing others from utilising the same trademarks.

The iconic plastic sandal, known as ‘medusa’, or by various other names such as ‘skeleton’, 'jelly', and ‘lêkê’ in different regions, with flexible structures and affordable prices, continues to delight customers globally, showcasing their enduring popularity after 75 years in the market.

Angela took the opportunity to clarify the significance of World IP Day and highlight the proactive steps that Nigerian creators can take to safeguard their rights and effectively prevent infringements.

See here the full interview.

(Article originally written in Portuguese)

Important compromise on interpretation in the EU

In March 2024, the European Union Intellectual Property Offices that are part of the European Union Intellectual Property Network (EUIPN) published a Common Communication on Trademark Applications Made in Bad Faith, establishing yet another understanding aimed at increasing legal certainty and predictability of decisions.

Inventa contributed to the 13th edition, providing a comprehensive overview of trademark legislation and regulations in Portugal, including requirements, timelines, opposition procedures and other related rights.

Angela Adebayo, Regional Director of Inventa Nigeria, was one of the key speakers at the SME100 Africa International Women's Day Conference held in Lagos, Nigeria on the 29th of March.

Inventa has been recognized as a 'Firm To Watch: Intellectual Property' in The Legal 500 EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa) 2024 edition.

As stated by The Legal 500, Inventa brings together trademark and patent attorneys, engineers, and consultants, providing comprehensive expertise in IP prosecution, enforcement, and protection of IP rights. Vítor Palmela Fidalgo, Legal Director of Inventa, is highlighted as a key figure for both contentious and non-contentious IP matters.

In the heart of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is not only known for its breathtaking landscapes but is also emerging as a hub for innovation within its dynamic manufacturing sector. With a keen focus on fostering a culture of innovation, the Mauritian government has taken significant steps to put the nation at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies and processes. It is in this context that various government initiatives and programs have been set up to encourage research and development, taking advantage of the favorable geographical location.