Trademark enforcement for "Slap Mat" silicone mats has been initiated with a lawsuit filed by Wham Bam Systems, LLC. The trademark is registered under Class 20, covering work surface protectors made of silicone. Cross-border sellers should be vigilant, as unauthorized use of this trademark may lead to TRO infringement risks. It is recommended to immediately conduct a self-check of store products to avoid potential losses.
US company Saule, LLC, as the trademark holder of "100%", has initiated another round of rights protection, posing an infringement risk to cross-border e-commerce sellers. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the "100%" trademark application and its enforcement activities. It also offers comprehensive strategies for sellers to mitigate infringement risks and ensure compliance, including self-inspection, trademark search, monitoring industry trends, and seeking legal advice. The aim is to help sellers avoid infringement and achieve compliant operations.
This article summarizes three recent TRO (Temporary Restraining Order) enforcement cases, involving trademark infringement by the United States Olympic Committee, copyright infringement of illustrations by Anderson Design Group, and trademark infringement of dolls by Blujay Studios. It serves as a reminder to cross-border e-commerce sellers to prioritize intellectual property protection, exercise caution in product selection, ensure original designs, and operate in compliance with regulations to avoid the risk of infringement.
The WCO held a workshop in Namibia to enhance intellectual property rights enforcement capabilities of Customs administrations in Eastern and Southern Africa. The workshop focused on risk management, information sharing, and the identification of counterfeit medicines. Participants explored strategies to strengthen regional cooperation and combat the trade in illicit goods that infringe on intellectual property rights. The aim was to improve the effectiveness of Customs administrations in protecting intellectual property at the border and fostering a safer and more secure trading environment within the region.
The World Customs Organization held a workshop in the Asia-Pacific region focusing on the enforcement of Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). The workshop aimed to enhance the capacity of member customs agencies to combat the illicit trade of environmentally sensitive goods. Topics covered included an overview of MEAs, global trade trends, risk management, document verification, and cargo inspection. The event fostered regional cooperation and the sharing of best practices, laying a foundation for addressing global environmental challenges. It emphasized the critical role of customs in protecting the environment.
The "Data Analysis Practical Handbook" aims to guide government departments like customs in leveraging big data and data analysis to enhance regulatory effectiveness and decision-making. The handbook covers aspects such as big data applications, data governance, and commonly used analytical tools. It assists in modernizing government governance capabilities by providing practical guidance on implementing data-driven strategies and improving operational efficiency through effective data analysis techniques.
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) urged accelerated review and updates to the USMCA at a USTR hearing. NEMA emphasized the importance of strengthening enforcement and enhancing policy predictability. They believe a well-functioning USMCA creates a level playing field for electrical manufacturers and promotes regional trade prosperity. NEMA's call highlights the industry's reliance on the trade agreement for stability and growth. Streamlining the USMCA processes can significantly benefit the electrical manufacturing sector and contribute to a more robust North American economy.
The WCO Asia-Pacific Regional Workshop on Intellectual Property Border Enforcement was successfully held in Shanghai, bringing together customs representatives and experts from 26 countries. The workshop focused on the harms of intellectual property infringement, the application of the TRIPS Agreement, the use of the IPM system, the identification of genuine and counterfeit goods, and risk assessment. Through experience sharing and practical exercises, the event enhanced the intellectual property protection capabilities of customs officers, promoted international cooperation, and fostered innovation and prosperity.
The World Customs Organization, in collaboration with UNEP and others, held a workshop for Botswana Customs to enhance their understanding of the Basel and Montreal Conventions. This initiative aims to strengthen their capacity to control the cross-border movement of hazardous waste and ozone-depleting substances. The workshop supports Botswana in building a green border and similar activities are planned for other beneficiary countries. The goal is to improve customs' ability to enforce environmental agreements and protect the environment through effective border management.
In 2017, the World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a diagnostic assessment of the Uganda Revenue Authority's capacity to enforce the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The assessment utilized an institutional assessment tool, combined with field visits and interviews, aiming to enhance Uganda Customs' ability to combat illegal wildlife trade. The assessment findings will guide future cooperation between the WCO and the Uganda Revenue Authority, contributing to global biodiversity conservation efforts.
