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Amendments to Trademark Laws

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Sep 01, 2026 (Newsletter Issue 7/26)
Japan
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Updated trademark examination guidelines clarify consent system


The Japan Patent Office (JPO) published the English version of its revised Trademark Examination Guidelines on 31 August 2026. The guidelines apply to examinations conducted on or after 1 April 2026.

The revision clarifies Japan’s consent system, under which registration of a mark similar to an earlier registered mark may be allowed if the prior owner consents and there is no likelihood of confusion.

In particular, the JPO now expressly addresses cases involving control relationships between the parties and situations where the sources of the relevant goods or services are substantively identical.

Source: https://www.jpo.go.jp/