1.Patents and Designs have been added to the scope of simplified Identification Procedures at Customs (Takashi Nakatsuka)

Japan Customs suspends the import of products that infringe intellectual property (IP) rights. When Customs finds suspicious products that may infringe IP rights, Customs initiates an Identification Procedure. As a result of the Identification Procedure, ... Read more >>>

2. Newly introduced Letters of Consent (Shunji Sato)

The amended Trademark Act went into effect on April 1, 2024. A new Article 4(4) has been added to the amended Trademark Act as an exception to Article 4(1)(xi), which rejects trademarks similar to prior registered trademark. ... Read more >>>

3.Recent Statistical Data Related to Patent Disputes in Japan (Satoshi Hamada)

In the event that you become involved in patent disputes, it is helpful to keep in mind statistical trends, such as how much time it takes to go through the procedures and what decisions are frequently made. In order to make it easier to understand ... Read more >>>

4. This Year’s Promotion to Partner ... Read more >>>

5.About TMI

Since our establishment on October 1, 1990, TMI Associates has grown rapidly to become a full-service law firm that offers valuable and comprehensive legal services ... Read more >>>