US Patent Win Doesnt Shield Firms From High Legal Costs

US Patent Win Doesnt Shield Firms From High Legal Costs

In US patent litigation, winning a case doesn't automatically entitle you to attorney fees from the losing party. Shifting attorney fees requires proving malicious intent, abusive litigation, or fraudulent conduct by the opponent. Furthermore, the claimed fees must be reasonable. This system aims to balance litigation rights, prevent abuse of the legal process, and ensure financial remedies for parties subjected to malicious accusations. It creates a high bar for fee shifting, protecting parties from unwarranted financial burdens in patent disputes.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Guide to Protecting Fashion Designs in Global Ecommerce

Guide to Protecting Fashion Designs in Global Ecommerce

This paper delves into intellectual property protection strategies in fashion design. It proposes a tiered protection scheme – "trademark + copyright + design patent + utility model patent" – targeting different design elements like patterns, colors, and silhouettes. Furthermore, it offers compliance advice for cross-border e-commerce businesses, helping them effectively protect original designs in overseas markets and enhance brand competitiveness. The paper aims to provide practical guidance for safeguarding fashion designs in the context of global trade and intellectual property rights.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Patent Prosecution Highway Speeds Up Approvals

US Patent Prosecution Highway Speeds Up Approvals

The USPTO has extended the PPH pilot program to 2029, offering opportunities for companies to accelerate US patent applications. PPH leverages already granted Chinese patent applications to significantly shorten the US patent examination cycle and improve grant rates. Key conditions for PPH application include timing, patent type, and information disclosure. Companies should seize this extension window and incorporate PPH into their intellectual property strategy to gain a market advantage. This extension provides a valuable tool for streamlining the patent process and securing US patent protection more efficiently.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Patent Office Overhauls SEP Governance Rules

US Patent Office Overhauls SEP Governance Rules

The USPTO has established an SEP working group to address patent licensing challenges in areas such as communications and AI. This marks a shift in the US from a 'judicial passive' approach to an 'administrative active' one, aiming to reshape the SEP governance system. This initiative could potentially influence global technology licensing rules by proactively addressing issues and potentially setting new standards for SEP licensing practices. The working group's findings and recommendations are expected to play a significant role in shaping future policies related to SEPs in the US and beyond.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Blockchain Platform CADENA Boosts Latin America Trade Efficiency

Blockchain Platform CADENA Boosts Latin America Trade Efficiency

The CADENA project leverages blockchain technology to build a cross-border trade data exchange platform in Latin America, connecting 8 countries and covering 14 mutual recognition agreements. Project experience highlights key success factors: co-creation design, proof of concept, selecting appropriate blockchain infrastructure, embracing open source, standardization, and iterative testing. This project offers valuable lessons for global blockchain-enabled trade facilitation initiatives, demonstrating the potential of distributed ledger technology to streamline processes and enhance transparency in international trade.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WTO Revisions Speed Up Global Trade Processes

WTO Revisions Speed Up Global Trade Processes

The 30th Session of the RKC Management Committee successfully convened, focusing on revisions to specific annexes concerning goods processing, postal transport, and crucial areas like Rules of Origin. A decision was made to extend the review period until December 2023. This extension aims to further refine the rules, enhance global trade facilitation, and provide clearer guidance for businesses, ultimately promoting cross-border trade development. The discussions centered on streamlining processes and ensuring clarity in international trade regulations.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Boosts Digital Tax Systems in Africa to Increase Revenue

WCO Boosts Digital Tax Systems in Africa to Increase Revenue

The WCO Secretary General shared practices and visions for enhancing tax collection efficiency through digital technologies at the African Tax Administration Forum. The WCO supports African countries in building efficient, transparent, and sustainable tax systems, ensuring economic development, through technological innovation such as big data and blockchain, as well as initiatives like standard setting and capacity building. This aims to improve tax administration and revenue mobilization across the continent.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Australian Resources Drive Chinas Manufacturing Growth

Australian Resources Drive Chinas Manufacturing Growth

China and Australia have a close trade relationship. Australia exports mineral resources and agricultural products to China, while China exports manufactured goods and services to Australia. This trade relationship promotes economic growth and employment in Australia, and provides China with important resources and markets. Despite facing challenges, the complementarity of China-Australia trade remains strong, with significant potential for cooperation. This mutually beneficial exchange is crucial for both economies.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Study Aims to Reduce Border Delays Between South Africa and Eswatini

Study Aims to Reduce Border Delays Between South Africa and Eswatini

South Africa and Eswatini launched a Time Release Study (TRS) at the Oshoek-Ngwenya border, aiming to improve cross-border trade efficiency by identifying and addressing bottlenecks in goods clearance through data analysis. Supported by the WCO, the study is expected to release a report in April 2024, providing recommendations for improvement. The TRS seeks to promote trade development and optimize border management between the two countries. The results will inform strategies to streamline processes and reduce delays, ultimately boosting economic activity.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New EXIM Project Streamlines Global Trade Licensing

New EXIM Project Streamlines Global Trade Licensing

The EXIM project aims to improve trade efficiency, transparency, and international competitiveness by establishing a single window for import and export licenses. It simplifies the application process, introduces a paperless environment, and incorporates electronic signatures. The project integrates with various government agencies and systems, saving businesses time and costs while providing 24/7 availability. Amendments to laws and regulations, along with government commitment, have ensured the project's successful implementation. The single window streamlines processes, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and fostering a more conducive environment for international trade.

02/12/2026 Customs Knowledge
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