Limited to Government Officers Only

About the Seminar

Historically, men had used various markings and indicia as an indication of origin; to identify the tribes or clans to which they belong. Over time, these markings and indicia were used on products and goods manufactured by men to identify the source of the products and goods involved. Today, trade marks are important and valuable business tools which convey a company’s goodwill and reputation as well as its commitment to quality and excellence. As such, it is an asset which has to be protected from dilution and infringement.

A common misconception is that trade marks are assets only in the private sector. However as government agencies are essentially service providers, their marks are also symbols of their services and can be used to build identity and convey quality. Government agencies may also be involved in regulating the use of certain marks (such as certification marks) and in development work in industries where trade marks are relevant (such as in promoting franchising and licensing). Thus is essential for officers to know what forms marks can take, how they can be used in business strategies, and to understand practical issues in managing marks.

This workshop is designed with an emphasis on the benefits of trade mark protection and how marks may be best managed and exploited from the perspective of providers of government services. It also seeks to redress the misconception that trade mark protection is only relevant to the private sector. By the end of the workshop, public agencies will gain knowledge of the various forms of marks that can be registered, exploitation mechanisms and integration into branding & other business strategies, and understand the issues in order to make more informed decisions in managing marks effectively.