ASPEC+: Re-thinking Patent Prosecution in Southeast Asia
By Hemanisha Baskaran Imagine handling patent prosecution across Southeast Asia (i.e. ASEAN) as one coordinated process instead of multiple separate filings. ASPEC+ makes this possible through a more streamlined and harmonized framework, delivering faster, more consistent, and more efficient outcomes. On 6th April 2026, the ASEAN Member States (AMS) IP Offices officially launched the ASEAN […]
Similarity is Not Enough: When Evidence, Not Eminence, Decides Trademark Rights
By Ma. Syril Diesta When similarity is obvious, is confusion automatic? The Supreme Court says no. In Innolab Industries, Inc. v. United Laboratories, Inc. (G.R. No. 257075, 5 August 2025), the Supreme Court of the Philippines delivered a pointed reminder on a principle often misunderstood in trademark law: similarity between marks, without more, does not […]
Indonesia Accelerates Trademark Registration: Smooth Applications Now Registered Within Six Months
By Carola Monintja In a significant milestone for Indonesia’s intellectual property (IP) landscape, the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (“DGPI”) has successfully streamlined the trademark registration process. As of mid-2025, trademark applications that meet standard criteria are now registered within a maximum of six months, marking a major shift from previous timelines and positioning Indonesia […]
From Thesis to Patent: Critical Points to Know
By Geetha Kandiah This case presents a compelling appellate decision concerning allegations of infringement of moral rights and the invalidation of a patent, brought by a Master’s student against multiple defendants. At first instance, the High Court dismissed the Plaintiff’s claims in their entirety. Background The factual matrix of Veronica Sainik @ Ronald v Meluha […]
The Unstoppable Rise of Asia
By Alvin Boey Why 2024 IP Filings Reveal a Fundamental Shift in Global Innovation Strategy. An Expert Analysis of WIPO 2025 Data and the Strategic Imperative for ASEAN Executive Overview The intellectual property landscape of 2024 tells a story that should command the attention of every enterprise with global ambitions. The latest data for year […]
From Practice To Policy: What Indonesia’s 2026 Trademark Regulation Really Changes
By Carola Monintja When the Indonesian Ministry of Law introduced Regulation No. 5 of 2026, effective 23 February 2026, it was more than a routine regulatory update. For those familiar with trademark practice in Indonesia, the changes reflect a deliberate effort to streamline the system and bring greater operational clarity to processes that had, over […]
Indonesia’s Patent Framework Recalibrated 2026
By Carola Monintja When Indonesia introduced Minister of Law Regulation No. 6 of 2026 on Patent Applications, it did not present itself as a sweeping overhaul. However, on closer review, it becomes clear that this is a carefully considered recalibration of how patent applications are managed in practice. Issued on 13 January 2026 and effective […]
How Does One Choose A Franchise To Embark On?
Feeling overwhelmed about choosing the right franchise? You’re not alone. With hundreds of brands, multiple industries, and outlet types to choose from — from trendy kiosks to full-scale stores, deciding where to begin can feel like standing at a massive crossroads. Should you jump into F&B, invest in education, or ride the wellness wave? And […]
Vietnam’s Amended Intellectual Property Law (Effective 1 April 2026): Key Updates For IP Holders
By Linh Nguyen On 10 December 2025, Vietnamese National Assembly adopted the Amended Law on Intellectual Property, which will take effect on 1 April 2026. The amendments represent a significant step towards strengthening IP protection, enhancing enforcement mechanisms, and aligning Vietnam’s IP framework with international trade commitments and the realities of the digital economy. For enterprises operating in Vietnam including domestic companies […]
Korean Food Brands in Thailand: Why Trademark Registration Comes First
By Tipsuda Suttasing The Queen Sirikit National Convention Center buzzed with opportunity as “SEOUL FOOD IN BANGKOK” brought together Korean food exporters and Thai market players for the sole purpose of finding the right Thai distributor to support market entry. Organized by SEOUL FOOD in Bangkok and KOTRA Bangkok, the trade fair showcases the growing […]