The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) – in collaboration with the Bangladesh Department of Patents, Industrial Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) and with support from Funds-in-Trust Japan Industrial Property Global (FIT/Japan IP Global) – held a national seminar on the Madrid System in Dhaka on May 19 and 20, 2026.
The seminar was attended by around 50 participants, including trademark examiners from DPDT and government officials from various institutions. The event formed part of WIPO’s broader efforts to strengthen intellectual property (IP) capacity and promote a deeper understanding of the international trademark system.
Promoting understanding of the Madrid System
The objectives of this seminar were to enhance technical expertise and examination skills in trademark prosecution and examination procedures relating to the Madrid System, and to support Bangladesh's preparation for accession to the Madrid Protocol.
The program particularly focused on:
- the Madrid System as a key mechanism for securing trademark protection across multiple jurisdictions
- interaction of the international trademark system with national IP frameworks
- WIPO’s digital tools and services developed to support trademark professionals throughout the lifecycle of an international trademark registration – available through eMadrid.
Combining conceptual learning and practical training
The seminar combined high-level discussions with practical training and provided a platform for both technical exchange and policy-level dialogue.
The first day introduced participants to the fundamentals of the Madrid System, including its structure, legal framework, and global reach. Sessions also explored how the System operates in practice and issues that may arise. Participants benefited from insights into global trends and experiences from different jurisdictions.
The second day focused primarily on operational and technical aspects relevant to IP Office practices, and was attended by trademark examiners, and officials from DPDT. Discussions covered key functions such as the handling of international trademark applications, the role of an IP Office in relation to international trademark registrations, and the substantive examination of international registrations in designated Madrid System members. Through interactive case studies and exercises, participants were able to apply learned concepts and deepen their practical understanding.
International expertise and exchange of perspectives
Speakers from WIPO, the Japan Patent Office (JPO), and DPDT presented at the seminar, offering participants a comprehensive perspective by combining international best practices, practical insights from an experienced user country, and local context relevant to Bangladesh's IP landscape:
- Ms. Debbie Roenning (WIPO) provided an overview of the Madrid System, outlining its key features and considerations, and discussed potential elements that could inform an accession roadmap for Bangladesh.
- Ms. Inanobe Maya (JPO) led sessions on the role and operations of an Office of origin, offering practical insights into international application procedures.
- Mr. Md. Belal Hossen (DPDT) presented updates on national developments, helping to contextualize the discussions within Bangladesh’s institutional framework.
Fostering dialogue and collaboration
The seminar fostered meaningful dialogue among participants, helping them identify common challenges faced by IP Offices, as well as opportunities to enhance administrative processes and service delivery. The inclusion of both technical staff and government officials supported broader discussions on the role of IP in economic and institutional development.
Continued engagement and capacity building
The seminar in Dhaka represents part of WIPO’s continued engagement with Bangladesh to support IP capacity-building and knowledge-sharing initiatives. Enhanced understanding of the Madrid System and strengthened technical expertise contribute to the development of a more effective and responsive IP system.
WIPO remains committed to working closely with national authorities and stakeholders to provide tailored support and promote informed discussions on international IP frameworks. Through collaborative initiatives such as this seminar, WIPO aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, support institutional development, and enhance the overall functioning of IP systems.
Countries interested in hosting similars are encouraged to contact WIPO for further information.