Reasons Why You Should Register your Trademark Internationally
One of the most difficult aspects of trademark protection today is protecting a mark internationally. Because there isn't a one-stop shop for worldwide registration of trademarks, a company must register its trademark rights in each and every country where it seeks protection. This can be a very costly and time-consuming proposition, but a very fruitful move for your business in the long haul.
There are a number of reasons why you should consider international registration of your trademark, some of which are:
Global Protection
One of the most significant advantages of e-commerce and online selling is that it makes it much easier for your company and its products to be seen by international customers. It's always up to you where you want to sell your goods, but the ease with which consumers have access to the worldwide market via the internet provides a fantastic platform for business expansion - one that retailers and other product distributors can't resist.
Once your products reach international markets, however, your business name and brand – and your trademark – may become more desirable as your popularity grows. Unfortunately, some parties will take advantage of your success by imitating your brand with the goal of damaging your reputation and profit margins through poor quality service. By registering your trademark in countries where your products are available, you're safeguarding against businesses that would try to deceive consumers by using a name or logo similar to yours.
Enhanced Legal Protection
An internationally registered trademark is a guarantee that protects you legally in the event that your registered mark is infringed by others, and you have responded to the problem. As a result, fighting against wrongful acts of offenders becomes considerably easier through a legal method before the court of law, and you must possess a certificate of registration to verify yourself as the correct and authorized owner of such registered term, logo or slogan.
If you have a registered trademark, you will have a much stronger legal position if you need to take action against someone who is infringing on your rights. In most countries, having a registered trademark gives you the presumption that you are the rightful owner of the trademark. This means that the burden of proof is on the infringer to prove that they are not infringing on your rights.
Worldwide Unique Identity
Just as your company's name and logo distinguish it from other businesses, a trademarked term or phrase makes it easier for customers to identify and remember the products you sell. In addition, having an internationally registered trademark is one way of creating a unique identity for your business on a global scale. If your trademark has been registered internationally, you will be known as a worldwide recognized brand of your products and services, meaning your products and services are trusted by a varied and widespread demographic.
Vulnerable to Overseas Counterfeiters
Not only are there people who want to make money off of your name, but there are also those who will replicate your product exactly, trademark and all. The counterfeit market is a booming industry overseas - especially when companies do not register their trademarks internationally.
Registering your trademark in countries where you believe the counterfeits are originating can provide extra protection. This helps you involve the local government of where the illicit products are being made, and as a result prevents counterfeit items from spreading to other countries.
Business Growth Opportunity
When it comes to expanding your business into new markets, having an internationally registered trademark is often seen as a major advantage. This is because potential investors, partners and customers may view your company as more professional and trustworthy if it has a strong global presence.
Trademark is an intangible property of the registered owner and plays a dominant role in the growth of the business of the owner. An internationally registered trademark can also help you avoid any legal challenges that may arise if you decide to do business in a country where another company is already using a similar name or logo. By having your trademark registered in that country, you will have the legal right to use your name or logo there, and the other company will not be able to stop you from doing business.
Online Presence
An online presence is critical for businesses today, and an internationally registered trademark can help you protect your online brand. When you've won global market recognition, it'll be easier to attract customers from all around the world. If you have a registered trademark, you can use it to stop others from using your mark in domain names and as social media identifiers. Furthermore, you can use your registration to take down websites that are selling counterfeit goods or engaging in other activities that violate your rights. An internationally registered trademark will also aid your business in protection against cybersquatters.
International Supply Chain
Your products may have global reach in other ways, even if you don't want to sell your them across borders. For example, in your manufacturing supply chain. It's critical to keep an eye on not just where your suppliers are located but also where their suppliers are located.
If you have a business, be sure to trademark your name in countries where it will come into contact with goods or services produced by other firms. It's one thing to list yourself as a consumer; but businesses might be tempted to, say, try to position themselves as a division or subsidiary of your company. To prevent situations like this, register your mark in countries that are linked to your supply chain. With a registered trademark, you'll be able to better police and prevent these and other types of concerns regarding infringement.
Ease of Export/Import
Customs can detain and seize shipments of goods that they suspect are counterfeit. Without a registered trademark, there is little you can do to stop this from happening, as customs will not know that the goods are actually yours. However, if you have a registered trademark, you can provide customs with a copy of your registration certificate. This will help to prove that you are the rightful owner of the trademark, and as a result, your goods will not be seized. An international trademark is thus significantly beneficial and acceptable across the world in all sectors, and it can protect your rights during the import and export process.
Increased Recognition and Prestige
Owning a registered trademark can also help to increase recognition and prestige for your company. A registered trademark can be used as a symbol of quality and as a way to differentiate your products or services from those of your competitors. Having a registered trademark in multiple countries can also help you to build goodwill with your customers, as they will know that you are serious about protecting your brand.
Global Trademark Company recognizes that trademarks are at the heart of every business. We offer Trademark Services in more than 25 countries including the USA, India, UK, Canada & China. Reach out to us today to get your first Free Consultation!