How Many Countries Are in Madrid Protocol?

By Michael Ferguson

The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty that simplifies the process of registering and managing trademarks across multiple countries. It allows trademark owners to file a single application with their national trademark office and then extend protection to other member countries through a centralized system.

How many countries are in the Madrid Protocol?

As of September 2021, there are 108 member countries in the Madrid Protocol. This includes most of the major economies around the world, as well as many emerging markets and developing countries.

Advantages of using the Madrid Protocol

One of the main advantages of using the Madrid Protocol is that it can save time and money for trademark owners. Instead of having to file separate applications in each country where they want protection, they can file one application with their national office and then use the centralized system to extend their rights internationally.

Another advantage is that it can simplify management of trademark portfolios. Trademark owners can use the same system to renew their registrations, assign or license their rights, or make other changes to their portfolio.

  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bhutan
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Brazil
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • China
  • Colombia
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • And so on..

  • The process for using the Madrid Protocol

    To use the Madrid Protocol, trademark owners must first file an application with their national trademark office. This application must meet the requirements of both the national office and the Madrid Protocol.

    Once the national office approves the application, it is sent to the International Bureau of WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization), which administers the Madrid System. The International Bureau will then examine the application to ensure that it meets all requirements under the Madrid Protocol.

    If everything is in order, the International Bureau will register the international trademark and send notifications to each of the designated member countries. Each country will then have a set period of time to examine and potentially challenge the registration.

    If there are no objections or challenges within this period, then the international registration will be granted protection in each of those countries.

    Conclusion

    The Madrid Protocol can be a powerful tool for simplifying and streamlining trademark management across multiple countries. With 108 member countries and counting, it offers a wide range of potential markets for trademark owners seeking international protection. However, it is important to carefully consider all aspects of using this system before proceeding, as there are also potential risks and complexities involved.