In a move aimed at enhancing the global trade mark protection landscape, IP Australia has recently announced the plan to adopt the Madrid Goods and Services (MGS) list in early 2024. The adoption of the list aims to improve the customer experience of Madrid System users and facilitate a streamlined process for exporters to protect their trade marks internationally. IP Australia’s objective is to align the Australian classification standards with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and international best practices.
KEY CHANGES: TRANSITIONING FROM THE AU PICKLIST TO WIPO’S MSG LIST
IP Australia will be replacing the current Trade Marks Goods and Services list, known as the AU picklist, with WIPO’s Madrid Goods and Services (MGS) list.
Additionally, IP Australia will develop a semantic search function that will enable clients to locate terms on the MGS list with meanings akin to their search queries. The semantic search function will assist in the transition from the AU picklist to the MGS list, simplify the process and broaden the scope of available terms.
ANTICIPATED BENEFITS OF THE CHANGES
Adopting the MGS list offers several advantages, including:
- Enhanced Global Compatibility and Simplified Expansion: Aligns with international standards, simplifying global trademark registration and assisting customers in protecting their trade marks on a global scale.
- Advanced Search Capabilities and Accurate Applications: The introduction of semantic search improves classification searches and the accuracy of trademark applications.
- Decreased Administrative Challenges: Reduces the probability of administrative complications, including the number of Madrid System irregularity notices.
- Improved Registration Process: Simplifying the trade mark registration and management process, improving the overall efficiency.
IP Australia is expecting these changes to occur in March 2024.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding IP and trade marks.