UAE Strikes a New Chord in IP Protection
The UAE is taking another significant step toward strengthening its intellectual property framework and supporting its creative economy. Effective December 1, 2026, businesses and organizations that use copyrighted music commercially across the UAE will be required to obtain the appropriate licenses and pay music royalties...
The Bahamas to Join the PCT as 159th Contracting State
Effective August 19, 2026, The Bahamas will officially become the 159th Contracting State of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), significantly modernizing the country's patent framework.
Saudi Arabia Launches Digital Platform for Trademark Enforcement
Saudi Arabia has launched a pilot digital trademark enforcement platform called "Tahaqaq," developed by the Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) to strengthen customs-based anti-counterfeiting efforts and streamline communication between customs authorities and trademark owners.
Saudi Arabia to Join the Madrid Protocol on October 8, 2026
Saudi Arabia's accession to the Madrid Protocol marks a major milestone in the evolution of the Kingdom's intellectual property framework. Effective October 8, 2026, brand owners will be able to extend trademark protection to Saudi Arabia through the Madrid System, while Saudi-based businesses will gain streamlined access to international trademark protection across a broad network of member jurisdictions.
European Inventor Award 2026: Innovation Driving a Sustainable Future
The European Patent Office (EPO) honored inventors whose innovations are transforming key sectors—including food chemistry, energy, biotechnology, and eco-technologies—at a ceremony in Berlin.
Trademark Protection Extended to 15 Years in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
The Trademark Office in the Kurdistan region of Iraq is now granting 15 years of trademark protection, replacing the previously applied 10-year term.
EPO-CNIPA Launch New PPH Pilot
On August 1, 2026, the European Patent Office (EPO) and the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) launched a new bilateral Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot programme.
Algeria Adopts the Hague Apostille Convention
Algeria has officially acceded to the Hague Apostille Convention (the 1961 Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents).
Key Changes to French IP Procedures in 2026
A decree published on July 2, 2026, introduces a range of measures aimed at simplifying and modernizing industrial property procedures in France. Read more to find a summary of key changes.
Bahrain Joins the Locarno Agreement
Bahrain has approved its accession to the Locarno Agreement through Law No. 21 of 2026. The treaty provides a globally recognized classification system for industrial designs...
