Australia adopts Madrid Goods and Services Classification from March 2024
As of the end of March 2024 IP Australia transitions to the Madrid Goods & Services (MG&S) list of terms for new applications. This is a welcome development for Australian and international brand owners alike, by harmonising the recital of goods and services. Australia's major trading partners are also adopting MG&S terms.
The Madrid System simplifies the process of protecting trademarks across multiple countries by allowing applicants to file and maintain a single international application consolidating rights in various countries. An international trade mark application can designate individual countries as needed. Accordingly a brand can be protected internationally with far less administrative headaches and at significantly less compared with separate national registrations.
Which international trade mark offices use the MG&S classification?
At present the Madrid Goods & Services list of terms has been adopted by:
- United States
- European Union
- Japan
- China
- Korea
What does this mean for international brand owners?
International applicants benefit significantly when designating Australia. International applicants can expect far fewer issues relating to terms or classification from IP Australia. Accordingly, the costs of protection in Australia should reduce by reducing the level of non-substantive rejections.
