Trademark protection for exporters
Register your brand in your export markets before you appoint distributors there.
Frequently asked questions
Does my Indian trademark protect me abroad?
No. Trademark rights are territorial. You need protection in each country where you sell.
What is priority?
If you file abroad within six months of your Indian filing, you can claim the Indian filing date in those countries.
Is the Madrid Protocol always cheaper?
Not always. It is convenient for many markets, but some countries are better filed directly. We compare both.
Can a distributor register my brand abroad?
It happens. Register first and make sure your agreement confirms you own the brand.
Does my Indian trademark protect my brand abroad?
No. Trademarks are territorial. You need protection in each country, through national filings or the Madrid Protocol.
What is the six-month priority?
Under the Paris Convention, if you file abroad within six months of your Indian application, the foreign application can claim your Indian filing date.
Is the Madrid Protocol always cheaper?
Not always. It suits three or more member markets with a strong Indian base mark. For one or two markets, or for non-member countries, direct filing can be better.
What if my distributor registers my brand abroad?
Recovery may be possible through opposition, cancellation or court action, depending on the country, but it is slow and costly. Register first and cover ownership in the distribution agreement.