OAPI – Launch of Pilot Project to Test a New Online System Delayed
In December 2020, the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) announced the launch of a pilot project to test a new online filing system (e-filing platform). The initial plan was to test the system amongst 6 firms (including our local Associate office) prior to a wider launch. However, the launch has been delayed, largely due to issues with the software system used for the pilot project, which proved to be complex and not user-friendly. OAPI has advised that a second trial phase may go into operation before the close of this year.
Is Your Trade Mark Portfolio Keeping Up With Your Business?
“We registered our trade mark years ago. We’re covered.” Are you? It’s a question every business owner should ask. Many businesses view trade mark registration as a once-off ex...
October 14 2026
Netflix and the Reach of Reputation: a Taiwan Trade Mark Decision and the South African Perspective
A recent decision of the Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (“TIPO”) illustrates how trade mark protection operates where competing marks consist essentially of stylised single letter devices, an...
October 14 2026
Chat Chat Chatterbot - Shall We Register Your Name?
So, you have birthed a chatbot and given it a name, what now? Should you register the name of the chatbot as a trade mark? The answer is a simple one, yes. If the chatbots are customer-facing, particu...
October 06 2026