Trade mark rights are protected on a country-by-country basis. If you register a trade mark in one country, that protection generally does not extend beyond its borders. As your business grows and enters new markets, securing international protection for your brand can become an important consideration.

How International Trade Mark Protection Works

There is no such thing as a single “global trade mark.” To protect your brand overseas, you usually need to apply for trade mark registration in each country or region where you plan to operate, manufacture, or sell your products or services.

There are a few main ways to do this:

• National or Regional Applications: Filing directly in individual countries or regions.

• International Application Systems: Using agreements such as the Madrid Protocol to seek protection in multiple member countries with a single application.

The Madrid Protocol

The Madrid Protocol is an international system that allows businesses to apply for trade mark protection in over 110 member countries through a single application process. To use this system, you must already have a trade mark application or registration in your “home” country.

How plummark Supports International Trade Mark Protection

plummark provides several pathways to help you secure trade mark protection beyond your home market:

Direct filing in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom

You can file trade mark applications directly in Australia, New Zealand, or the UK through plummark’s easy-to-use website. This makes it simple to secure protection for your brand in these key markets.

International applications via the Madrid Protocol

If you have a trade mark application or registration in Australia, New Zealand, or the UK, plummark can help you file an international application under the Madrid Protocol. This allows you to extend your brand protection to multiple member countries with a single process.

Support in other countries through a trusted global network

For countries not covered by direct filing or the Madrid Protocol, or in cases where local expertise is needed, plummark works with an extensive network of trusted trade mark attorneys and lawyers worldwide. This means your business can access expert support wherever you need to expand your trade mark protection.

Why International Trade Mark Protection Matters

Securing trade mark protection internationally can help your business prevent others from using your brand, support your growth into new markets, and add value to your brand as an asset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I protect my trade mark in every country?
You can apply for protection in most countries, but each application is subject to local laws and approval processes. Some countries are not part of the Madrid Protocol and require direct filing.

What is the Madrid Protocol?
The Madrid Protocol is an international agreement that lets you seek trade mark protection in over 110 countries through a single application, provided you already have an application or registration in your home country.

Does plummark help with international filings?
Yes. plummark enables you to file in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK directly on our site, and we can help you file via the Madrid Protocol if you qualify. For other countries or complex situations, we work with trusted trade mark attorneys worldwide.

Do I need a separate trade mark for each country?
Generally, yes. Trade marks are territorial rights, so you need to register in each country or region where you want protection.

Get Started with International Trade Mark Protection

Ready to protect your brand internationally? Start by registering your trade mark in Australia, New Zealand, or the UK directly through plummark. If you’re looking to expand into other countries or want to discuss your options, reach out to our team at support@plummark.co