Trademark Enforcement in Laos: A Smart Strategy in a High-Risk Region

[vc_row triangle_shape="no"][vc_column][vc_column_text]Download What are the options for a trademark owner if their trademark is illegally used in Laos - one of Southeast Asia's most challenging jurisdictions? This was the critical question facing Luk Fook Company, a leading international jewelry brand, when its trademark was found to be in unauthorized use at a storefront within the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone, a region in Bokeo Province, Laos, known for its legal ambiguity and illicit activities. Although enforcement in such jurisdictions may appear impractical or fraught with risk, Luk Fook Company’s enforcement strategy demonstrates that targeted legal intervention, executed with precision and discretion, can...

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Copyright and Goods: The Right Distinction for Effective IP Protection at Vietnam’s Borders

Why can a company holding a valid copyright certificate be denied customs supervision measures? A recent case involving a Korean copyright owner and Vietnamese customs has exposed a frustrating gap between legal theory and practical IP enforcement. When a request for customs supervision was submitted based on a Copyright Registration Certificate for the packaging of the "FOELLIE INNER PERFUME" product, the Customs Department temporarily refused, declining to accept the customs supervision request....

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Registering Class 35 – A Choice or an Imperative Strategy in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia

In the markets of Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, registration under Class 35 is no longer merely an option—it has become an essential requirement for securing robust and comprehensive brand protection. The prevailing practice of prioritizing Class 35 in trademark examination within these jurisdictions is not just procedural in nature; it constitutes a strategic key that enables businesses to significantly enhance their trademark protection—often exceeding expectations....

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Criminal Procedures For Trademark Infringement In Laos

Trademark infringement cases in Laos involve a multi-stage process with specific procedures and timelines. In this article, KENFOX IP & Law Office provides a step-by-step guide to the process, outlining the roles of the police, prosecutors, and the courts, from the initial complaint to the final judgment and potential reopening of the case....

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Criminal Penalties Applicable To Trademark Infringement In Laos: What Are They?

Trademark infringement in Laos carries significant legal consequences, including a range of criminal penalties. In this article, KENFOX IP & Law Office provides a comprehensive overview of the penalties applicable to individuals and legal entities found guilty of trademark infringement under Lao law. We examine the types of penalties, their calculation, and the factors that influence their severity. 1. Overview of Penalties for Trademark Infringement in Laos [Article 139 IP Law] Trademark infrement in Laos can lead to a variety of penalties, including punishment: (i) Education or warning: For minor or unintentional infringements....

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Understanding the Trademark Examination Process in Laos

[vc_row triangle_shape="no"][vc_column][vc_column_text] Download The Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) offers a legal framework for protecting trademarks through registration. A registered trademark grants the owner exclusive rights to use the mark for specific goods or services, preventing others from using a similar mark that could cause confusion among consumers. KENFOX IP & Law Office provides a comprehensive overview of the trademark examination process in Laos, guiding businesses and individuals through the key stages involved in securing trademark protection. 1. Preliminary examination The first step in the trademark registration process is the preliminary examination conducted by the Department of Intellectual Property (DIP). The DIP assesses the...

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Laos Unveils New IP Law 2023: 5 Burning Questions Every Business Should Ask

Laos has made significant progress in modernizing its intellectual property (IP) framework. The recently enacted Law on Intellectual Property No. 50/NA (the “2023 Law on IP“) brings Laos closer to international standards, creating a more favorable environment for businesses in the country. However, there are still challenges that need to be addressed within Laos’ IP regime....

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3 Typical Copyright Infringement Cases Criminally Prosecuted in Vietnam

Download In recent years, Vietnam has emerged as a hotbed for copyright infringement, fueled by the rapid growth of websites and services that distribute pirated content. Sites like Phimmoi, Fmovies, AniWave, 123movies, BestBuyIPTV, and 2embed not only cause significant damage to the domestic creative market but also adversely affect the global industry. The popularity of these pirated movie sites stems from the substantial profits they generate. However, Vietnamese enforcement agencies have made significant efforts in law enforcement to address copyright infringement cases, especially in the field of digital content and online distribution. KENFOX IP & Law Office highlights three typical cases of...

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Protection of Plant Breeder’s rights in Laos: What You Need To Know

Download In Laos, farming (agriculture) is very important for both the people's way of life and the country's economy. Because of this, protecting the rights of people who create new types of plants (i.e., plant breeder's rights) is becoming a very important issue. The Law on Intellectual Property (Amended) No. 38/NA, which came into force on June 8, 2018, marks a significant step forward in recognizing and safeguarding the intellectual efforts of those who bring new plant varieties to life. But what does this mean for the breeders, the agricultural sector, and the biodiversity of Laos? KENFOX IP & Law Office...

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