Trademark News: What Flew Under the Radar in July 2026
August 1, 2026
Stay informed with our comprehensive roundup of the past month's headlines, all neatly compiled for you in one convenient post. Catch up on the latest news reported by the Kluwer IP Reporter.
Canada launches online confirmation service for trademark registrations
On 9 June 2026, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) notified a communication it received from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) that the CIPO introduced a new online service called “Confirmation of Trademark Registration” for trademark holders.
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Canada launches public engagement on GIs
The Government of Canada on 28 May 2026 started a public consultation process on geographical indications (GIs), seeking input on the current framework for GIs, which is currently limited to wines, spirits and certain agricultural and food products.
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Cape Verde adopts new Industrial Property Code
Cape Verde has recently adopted new Industrial Property Code, which aims to align the country’s intellectual property legislation with international and regional standards, including the Paris Convention, TRIPS Agreement, Patent Cooperation Treaty and ARIPO protocols. The new code entered into force on 2 June 2026.
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China overhauls its trademark law
On 26 June 2026, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress adopted a revised Trademark Law of the People’s Republic of China, which is set to take effect on 1 January 2027.
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China revises Trademark Law to curb malicious registrations
On 2 July 2026, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress adopted revised amendments to China’s Trademark Law to curb bad-faith filings and strengthen trademark regulation.
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Jersey becomes separate Madrid designation
On 1 August 2026, the Bailiwick of Jersey will become an independent designation under the World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO’s) Madrid System, which relates to the international registration of trademarks, and the United Kingdom will no longer cover the Bailiwick of Jersey.
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EUIPO streamlines online filing tools for trademarks and designs
On 1 July 2026, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) will integrate its Easy Filing forms into the standard online filing process for trademarks and designs.
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EUIPO updates generative AI rules
The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has recently issued updated guidelines on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools for its staff.
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Madrid Protocol fee established for Bailiwick of Jersey
In accordance with the provisions of the Common Regulations under the Madrid Agreement and Protocol concerning the International Registration of Marks, the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization on 24 June 2026 announced the individual fees payable when Bailiwick of Jersey is designated in an international application or in an application for renewal of an international registration or is a subject of a subsequent designation.
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Madrid System services to pause for maintenance
The International Bureau of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has announced scheduled maintenance of the Madrid System services from 17 July 2026 to 19 July 2026.
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South Korea introduces IP-AX oversight body
On 20 May 2026, the Ministry of Intellectual Property (MOIP) of the Republic of Korea announced the launch of the Intellectual Property Artificial Intelligence Transformation Division to guide AI-based changes in IP administration.
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