IP UNFOLD MONTHLY IP INFO-FEBRUARY, 2025

 

1. Casio Wins Landmark Unfair Competition Case in China 

Casio secured a major victory in China as the Guangdong High Court ruled against two watchmakers for copying its GA-110 design. The court awarded Casio Rmb3 million (US$413,500) in damages, reinforcing trade dress protection even after design patents expire. This sets a key precedent for brand owners fighting copycats. 

 

2. Cambodia Launches Online Patent & IP Filing System 

Cambodia has introduced online filing for patents, utility models, and industrial designs, streamlining the process and enhancing accessibility. The system, backed by WIPO, improves efficiency while ensuring security through strict applicant verification.

 

3. Thailand to Adjust International IP Fees from 2025

Starting February 1, 2025, Thailand will revise fees for international applications, including search and processing fees. Late payments will face a 50% surcharge, while eligible applicants may receive reductions.

 

4. Singapore Leads in AI Innovation with Copyright Reform

Singapore’s 2021 Copyright Act update, including the CDA exception, boosts AI development while protecting creators. This forward-thinking approach positions Singapore as a model for AI policy worldwide.

 

5. Major Publishers Sue AI Startup Cohere for Copyright Infringement

Condé Nast, The Atlantic, Forbes, and The Guardian have sued AI firm Cohere for allegedly scraping and misusing over 4,000 articles without permission. The lawsuit claims Cohere’s AI reproduces copyrighted content, competes with publishers, and spreads misinformation.

 

6. ASEAN IPA Panel Discusses IP Enforcement Challenges 

Experts at the ASEAN IPA conference highlighted the high costs of tackling small-scale IP infringement, urging better customs training and platform cooperation. Speakers discussed global enforcement trends and evolving policies to curb counterfeit trade.

 

7. ASEAN IPA Pushes for Stronger IP Cooperation 

At the ASEAN IPA annual meeting, leaders emphasized regional IP collaboration, the Pan-ASEAN Trademark System, and expanding global partnerships. New president Sovath Phin vowed to strengthen education, engagement, and influence.

 

8. Ugg Since 1974" Rebrands Amid Trademark Dispute 

Amid a legal battle with Deckers, Australian brand Ugg Since 1974 has rebranded to "Since 1974" for international sales. The dispute highlights the clash between trademark rights and cultural identity, as "ugg" is generic in Australia but trademarked in the U.S.

 

9. Philippines Pushes GI System to Boost Agriculture

The Department of Agriculture, IPOPHL, and AFD have launched a ₱30.1M project to promote geographical indications (GIs), aiming to register high-potential products and support farmers in strengthening their market competitiveness.

 

10. Japan Court Upholds AI Patent Rejection

Japan’s IP High Court upheld the rejection of a U.S. engineer’s patent application naming AI system DABUS as the inventor, ruling that only humans can be inventors under patent law.

 

11. Singapore, WIPO Launch AMP+ for IP Mediation

IPOS and WIPO introduced AMP+ to fund mediation for IP and tech disputes in ASEAN, offering up to S$3,000 per case. Applications open until December 31, 2025.