On 22 August 2021 new provisions pertaining to trademarks, trade secrets and the Internal Market Inspectorate (IMI) entered into force under Albanian’s Industrial Property Law. The most significant of these changes is the implementation of EU Directive 2016/943, which affects the protection of trade secrets. Further amendments lay out the...
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On 22 August 2021 new provisions pertaining to trademarks, trade secrets and the Internal Market Inspectorate (IMI) entered into force under Albanian’s Industrial Property Law. The most significant of these changes is the implementation of EU Directive 2016/943, which affects the protection of trade secrets. Further amendments lay out the duties and responsibilities of the IMI. Previously, its role was undefined. On the trademark side, a trademark registration can now be split into two or more registrations, and the Albanian Intellectual Property Office will reject trademark applications during substantive examination if the mark’s dominant element is considered to be non-distinctive. These legislative changes represent the nation’s dedication to improve its IP framework and make Albania a desirable location for brand owners, with practitioners noting an increase in trademark filings year on year.
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