Register for collective trademark protection

I. Concept and characteristics of collective trademark protection

1. The concept of collective trademark protection

• A collective mark is a mark created by an association or organization and used by members of that organization to mark their goods and services.
• The collective brand reflects the origin, quality, and common reputation of its members.

2. Characteristics of collective marks

• The owner is an association or organization, not an individual.
• Members are allowed to use trademarks according to the usage regulations.
• The trademark must represent the general attributes of the goods or services.

II. Procedure for registering collective trademark protection

1. Prepare documents

• Application for registration of collective mark
• Brand description and list of goods and services
• Regulations on use of collective marks
• Power of attorney (if any)

2. Submit

• Submit directly or by mail to the Intellectual Property Office.
  Pay the registration fee according to regulations.

3. Appraisal and issuance of Certificate

• The Intellectual Property Department conducts dossier appraisal.
• If valid, issue a Collective Trademark Registration Certificate.

III. Rights and obligations of collective trademark owners

1. Owner’s rights

• Allow members to use trademarks.
• Prevent others from using the trademark without permission.
• Exclusively protected during the validity period.

2. Owner’s obligations

• Manage and monitor members’ use of trademarks.
• Ensuring the quality and reputation of goods and services using the trademark.
• Pay periodic renewal fees to maintain the certificate.

IV. Meaning of registering for collective trademark protection

• Increase reputation and competitiveness of members’ products/services.
• Protect the legal rights of association and owner organizations.
• Promote connection and cooperation among members.

Registering and protecting collective trademarks is an important measure to help associations and organizations affirm their common brand, protect legal rights and promote connection and cooperation among members.