Madrid Protocol: The Gateway for Trademarks in the International Arena

In an increasingly globalized world, protecting your brand beyond national borders is no longer a luxury — it has become a strategic necessity. In this context, the Madrid Protocol stands out as an essential tool for companies that want to expand their international presence with security and efficiency.

The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), created in 1989. It allows trademarks to be registered simultaneously in up to 129 countries through a single application, simplifying the process of international protection.

Brazil joined the treaty in 2019, making it possible for Brazilian companies to apply for international registration directly through the INPI (National Institute of Industrial Property).

How does it work in practice?

The functioning of the Madrid Protocol can be summarized in three main steps:

1. Prior national registration: The trademark must be registered or in the process of registration in the country of origin (in Brazil, with the INPI).
2. International application: Based on this registration, the holder may request international protection through the INPI, indicating the countries where the trademark should be protected.
3. Examination in designated countries: Each country evaluates the application according to its own laws. If approved, the trademark receives local protection without the need for new individual processes.

Using the Madrid Protocol can bring several advantages to your company, such as:

• Centralization: A single application, one language, one set of fees.
• Cost savings: Reduction in translation expenses, fees, and local attorney costs.
• Agility: Faster and less bureaucratic process.
• Flexibility: Possibility to include new countries later on.

The Madrid Protocol is considered a game-changer for companies that want to internationalize their trademarks. It democratizes access to global protection, which was once restricted to large corporations with resources to navigate multiple legal systems.

If you are considering expanding into other markets, protecting your brand is the first step. And the Madrid Protocol can be your best ally on this journey.