International IP Issues MC: Harshad Shiba Speakers: Chris Round & Jonathan Flintoft

INTERNATIONAL IP ISSUES

Page heading goes here Types of IP relevant to franchise systems Trade marks word/ logo marks slogans/ tag lines others – shape marks Copyright – eg. Franchise Manual, other documents Domain names Know-how (trade secrets/ confidential information) Patents Registered designs Page heading goes here

Page heading goes here Types of IP relevant to franchise systems Jurisdictional issues arising from national trade mark systems: China trade mark squatters online issues arising from domain name handles and user names Page heading goes here

Issues to consider before expanding to overseas jurisdictions Trade mark protecion Pre-filing availability searches can mark be used/ registered? trade mark squatters undesirable connotations or translations? File applications before starting discussions with potential franchisees first to file v first to use countries 6 month priority period Page heading goes here

Issues to consider before expanding to overseas jurisdictions Ensure core marks are protected for core goods/ services local language marks? Consider filing strategy national applications v regional/ international options EUTM/ international registrations – pros and cons; costs and management phased filing based on countries of interest. Page heading goes here

Issues to consider before expanding to overseas jurisdictions (cont) Countries that require use as a pre-condition for registration Portfolio management – instructing local agents directly v using a single coordinating firm. Page heading goes here

Issues to consider before expanding to overseas jurisdictions Know How Importance of signing NDA before commencing discussions with potential franchisees Governing law? Does local law have a framework for protection of trade secrets? Are appropriate enforcement/ remedies available? Page heading goes here

Issues to consider before expanding to overseas jurisdictions Domain names Importance of using local country-level domain names (ccTLDs) New gTLDs and sunrise periods Need for multiple domain name filings? Asian Domain Name Scam Enforcement/ dispute resolution mechanisms Page heading goes here

Page heading goes here Ongoing IP issues Protections in franchise agreements/ other documents Confidentiality Trade marks restrictions on licensed rights approval mechanisms obligations not to use/ register similar marks (local language versions, translations, transliterations?) Specific local law requirements? Page heading goes here

Page heading goes here Ongoing IP issues Registration of trade mark licences not strictly required in most countries (although may be recommended) Required in some countries (e.g. Brazil, Mexico, Saudi Arabia) Page heading goes here

Page heading goes here Ongoing IP issues Improvements to franchise IP by local franchisee Ownership Assignment/ exclusive licence Examples China – Technology Import Export Regulation EU – Technology Transfer Block Exemption Page heading goes here

Page heading goes here Ongoing IP issues Maintenance of registered rights Renewals Proof of use requirements for trade marks – for example: United States Philippines Page heading goes here

Page heading goes here Enforcement Differences in enforcement systems common law countries civil law countries Government assistance? Online infringements jurisdiction what can be done from Australia approach of social media sites DMCA Page heading goes here

QUESTIONS?