India’s First Compulsory Licence: Patents vs Public Health?

In a move with far reaching implications for the debates around pharmaceutical patents, innovation and access to medicines, the Indian patent office issued its first ever compulsory licence in the post TRIPS era. While health activists, generic manufacturers and several academics lauded the decision, the multinational pharmaceutical industry was up in arms.

The Acceptance of Sound Trade-Marks - What’s Next for CIPO?

In view of the recent Federal Court Order, the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) will now accept applications for sound marks. This groundbreaking decision arises in recognition of the nearly nineteen year legal conflict with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios (MGM) whom, after an appeal of a CIPO decision in 2010, have now acquired the right to trade-mark […]