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Should Canada Strengthen IP Protection for Pharmaceutical Products? The European Union Thinks So...

Should Canada Strengthen IP Protection for Pharmaceutical Products? The European Union Thinks So...

The Canadian government and European Union (EU) are currently negotiating a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).  A key issue has been ensuring that Canadian intellectual property rights for pharmaceutical products are brought in line with EU standards.  It appears that the EU believes Canada’s legal regime regulating the approval of drugs does not provide […]

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

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?

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 […]