How to apply for trademark registration for matcha products abroad?

How to Apply for Trademark Registration for Matcha Products Overseas

To register a trademark for matcha products overseas, follow the international trademark protection system to secure legal protection for your brand in target markets. Key steps and considerations are outlined below:

1. Pre-Application Preparation

• Trademark Search:
  • Conduct a search in the trademark database of the target country/region (e.g., WIPO’s Global Brand Database) to ensure no conflicts exist for your matcha trademark (e.g., name, logo, or packaging design).
  • Focus on Class 30 (International Classification: 30), covering tea, coffee, cocoa, and related food products.
• Define Trademark Elements:
  • Specify the trademark format (word, graphic, or combination), e.g., "Matcha" or a unique design.
  • Prepare detailed descriptions, including colors, fonts, etc.
• Identify Target Markets:
  • List overseas countries/regions (e.g., U.S., EU, Japan), prioritizing matcha consumption hotspots.

2. Choose Registration Pathway

• Madrid System (Recommended):
  • Covers 100+ member states (including China, U.S., EU).
  • Process: Submit an international application via China’s National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) → WIPO examination → Review by designated national trademark offices.
  • Advantages: Single application, cost- and time-efficient (fees: ~CNY 2,000–10,000, depending on countries).
• Direct National Application:
  • For non-Madrid member countries (e.g., some Middle Eastern nations), apply directly to local trademark offices (e.g., USPTO for U.S., EUIPO for EU).
  • Requirement: Engage local agents to handle language and legal requirements.
  • Cost: Higher fees (~CNY 5,000–20,000 per country).

3. Application Submission

• Document Preparation:
  • Trademark specimen (high-resolution image or vector file).
  • Applicant details (business registration proof, address).
  • List of goods (specify "matcha powder," "matcha beverages," etc., under Class 30).
  • Priority claim documents (if based on existing Chinese registration).
• Application Process:
  • Madrid System: File online via CNIPA; pay base + designation fees.
  • Direct Application: Submit forms through local agents; pay fees.
  • Timeline: Madrid System: 12–18 months; Direct Application: 6–24 months (varies by country).

4. Examination and Registration

• Examination Phase:
  • Target country’s trademark office reviews registrability (e.g., distinctiveness, no confusion).
  • Respond promptly to office actions (e.g., requests to amend descriptions).
• Publication and Opposition:
  • After preliminary approval, the trademark is published (e.g., EU Official Gazette), allowing third parties to oppose within 2–3 months.
  • If unopposed, registration is granted with a certificate.
• Registration Validity:
  • Protection period: Typically 10 years, renewable indefinitely.

5. Maintenance and Management

• Renewal: Renew every 10 years via the original pathway (Madrid allows bulk renewal).
• Monitoring: Use trademark watch services (e.g., WIPO Alert) to prevent infringement.
• Use Requirement: Commercial use in the registered country (e.g., sales records) to avoid cancellation for non-use.

6. Matcha-Specific Recommendations

• Cultural Adaptation:
  • Ensure the trademark carries no negative connotations in target markets (e.g., "Matcha" should be easily readable in Western countries).
  • Localize designs (e.g., packaging aligned with regional aesthetics).
• Legal Risks:
  • Verify geographical indications (e.g., protected terms like Japan’s "Uji Matcha") to avoid infringement.
  • Combine with product compliance (e.g., food import licenses), but treat trademark registration separately.
• Professional Support:
  • Hire international trademark agents or attorneys for complex cases (fees: ~CNY 5,000–30,000).
  • Reference resources: WIPO website, target country’s trademark office portals.

Through systematic preparation and professional assistance, overseas trademark registration can be efficiently completed, safeguarding your matcha brand’s competitiveness in global markets.