Is Russia in Madrid Protocol?

By Michael Ferguson

The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty that allows trademark owners to protect their marks in multiple countries through a single application. It simplifies the process of applying for trademarks across borders, making it easier and more cost-effective for businesses to expand their operations globally. However, not all countries are signatories to the Madrid Protocol, including Russia.

What is the Madrid Protocol?

The Madrid Protocol is a treaty administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) that provides a centralized system for trademark registration. It allows trademark owners to file a single application with WIPO, which can then be used to secure trademark protection in any of the participating countries. This eliminates the need for businesses to file separate applications in each individual country where they wish to register their trademarks.

Which Countries are Signatories to the Madrid Protocol?

As of 2021, there are 125 countries that are signatories to the Madrid Protocol, including many major economies such as the United States, China, Japan, and most of Europe. However, there are also several notable exceptions, including Canada and Brazil. Unfortunately for businesses looking to expand into Russia, it too falls into this category.

Is Russia Part of The Madrid Protocol?

No, Russia is not part of the Madrid Protocol. This means that businesses looking to register their trademarks in Russia will need to follow its national trademark laws and file separate applications with Rospatent (Federal Service for Intellectual Property), which is Russia’s equivalent of WIPO.

Russia’s National Trademark Laws

Russia’s national trademark laws provide protection for registered trademarks within its borders. To obtain a trademark registration in Russia, you must file an application with Rospatent and meet its requirements for trademark registration. The process can take up to 18 months or longer if there are any objections or oppositions from third parties.

The Importance of Protecting Your Trademarks in Russia

Russia is the largest country in the world by land area and has a population of over 144 million people. It is a major player in the global economy and offers significant opportunities for businesses looking to expand their operations. However, it also presents unique challenges, including its complex legal system and strict regulations.

If your business operates in Russia or plans to do so in the future, it’s important to protect your trademarks within its borders. Without trademark protection, your brand could be vulnerable to infringement and counterfeiting, which can lead to significant financial losses and damage to your reputation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Russia is not part of the Madrid Protocol. Businesses looking to register their trademarks in Russia will need to follow its national trademark laws and file separate applications with Rospatent. While this process may be more time-consuming and costly than using the Madrid System, it’s essential for protecting your brand within Russia’s borders.