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.
