TRADEMARK COUNTRIES

Japan is a large and modern Asian economy, offering Australian businesses endless export opportunities. Protecting your brand with a trade mark registration is a crucial first step to building a strong foundation for longterm growth and success in Japan.

Why Register Your Trade Mark in Japan?

A trade mark registration in Japan gives you:

• Exclusive rights to use your brand for your registered goods or services in Japan.
• Ability to export to Japan and deal with local business partners with confidence
• The legal tools to stop copycats and counterfeiters anywhere in Japan.
• The ability to take action in Japanese Courts to enforce your rights.
• Border protection by recording your trade mark with Japan Customs to stop counterfeit imports.
• The right to use the ® symbol within Japan, showing that your brand is officially protected.

In short, a trade mark in Japan is an extremely valuable asset for your business.

How the Process Works

We guide you through every step of the trade mark process in Japan:

1. Search & Advice – We check if your brand can be registered and is clear to use in Japan.
2. Application Filing – We prepare and lodge your application with the Japan Patent Office (JPO).
3. Examination & Publication – We manage status updates, examiner reports, objections, and possible oppositions.
4. Registration – We provide you with the registration certificate and advise you on proper trade mark use in Japan.
5. Renewal – We remind you when renewal is due each ten (10) years.
6. Ongoing Support – Our trade mark attorneys in Japan serve as your local representative, ensuring you receive all official correspondence and English translation.

What You Should Know

• Use is important: While you don’t need to show use when filing, you must use your trade mark in commerce to keep it valid. After a 3-year grace period, other traders may apply for full or partial cancellation of your trade mark based on non-use.
• Strict examination rules: The JPO carefully examines trade mark applications to prevent confusion with existing Japanese brands.
• Translation: Trade mark specifications must be carefully translated into Japanese language to ensure proper protection.
• Foreign applicants: If you are outside of Japan, you must appoint a Japanese representative to manage your application and official correspondence.

Why Work With Us

We specialise in helping businesses protect their brands internationally, including in Japan. From the initial clearance searches to long-term brand strategy, we make the process clear, efficient, and strategic so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.