Thailand Joins the Madrid System

August 7, 2017

On August 7, 2017, the Government of Thailand deposited its instrument of accession to the Madrid Protocol with WIPO’s Director General, making Thailand the 99th member of the Madrid System.  The Protocol will enter into force for Thailand on November 7, 2017.

(Left to right) Ms. Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Ambassador, Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of Thailand to the World Trade Organization, Mr. Thosapone Dansuputra, Director General, Department of Intellectual Property, Ms. Wiboonlasana Ruamraksa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, Mr. Francis Gurry (photo: WIPO/Berrod).

Starting November 7, local brand owners in Thailand can begin using the Madrid System to protect their marks in the 114 territories of the System’s other 98 members by filing a single international application and paying a single set of fees.

With its straightforward designation process, foreign companies and trademark owners can, from this November, seek trademark protection through the Madrid System when selling their products and services in Thailand.

The deposit, made by Ms. Wiboonlasana Ruamraksa, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, includes declarations under Articles 5(2)(b) and (c) of the Protocol (extension of the refusal period to 18 months and beyond (for oppositions)), Article 8(7)(a) (individual fees) and Rule 20bis(6)(b) of the Common Regulations (recording of licenses in the International Register has no effect in Thailand).

Protecting your brand in Thailand

Thailand’s accession spotlights the Madrid System’s emergence as a key component of protecting marks internationally, offering a convenient and cost-effective solution for brand owners worldwide.

If you’re interested in seeking protection for your trademark in Thailand, use the Global Brand Database to browse marks currently registered in that market before you file an international application.

And stay tuned – information about Thailand’s trademark laws and practices will soon be available in the Member Profiles Database.

Are you the holder of an international registration? Use our online e-Subsequent Designation service and expand the scope of protection to include Thailand’s vast consumer market. Then, track the status of your request with Madrid Monitor.

About the Madrid System

The Madrid System makes it possible for you to apply for trademark protection in up to 115 territories by filing a single international application with the national or regional IP office of a Madrid System member.

With the Madrid System, the process of multinational trademark registration is streamlined through a single application and management process.

Today, the Madrid Registry is focused on delivering a streamlined, customer-driven experience for users throughout the lifecycle of their mark with its evolving suite of e-services and online resources. Learn more. 

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