In the context of the knowledge economy where innovation is becoming a strong driving force for development, new ideas, unique brands, or outstanding software are invaluable assets that bring immense commercial value to businesses. However, the more creativity flourishes, the higher the risk of “plagiarism” and intellectual theft.
So, what is intellectual property, and why is registering for protection a vital “move” for every individual and organization? Let’s explore the details with SBLAW experts in the article below.
- What is Intellectual Property?
“Intellect” refers to the unique rational cognitive ability of humans, and the achievements gained through this creative activity are called intellectual assets.
According to the provisions of the Intellectual Property Law of 2005 (amended in 2009 and 2019), intellectual property rights are the rights of organizations and individuals to the intellectual assets they create or own. These rights are divided into 3 main categories:
- Copyright and related rights: Protecting literary and artistic works, songs, computer software, scripts, etc.
- Industrial property rights: Protecting trademarks, patents, industrial designs, geographical indications, trade secrets, etc.
- Rights to plant varieties: Protecting new plant varieties.
- 5 Golden Reasons Why You Must Register Intellectual Property Immediately
Many businesses believe that focusing solely on sales is enough. However, registering for intellectual property protection brings benefits far beyond ordinary legal value:
- Promote business & Prevent copying: Registration helps businesses establish a legal barrier, minimizing damages caused by infringement and product copying from competitors, thereby fully protecting economic interests.
- Create an exclusive competitive advantage: A protected product/brand will create a fair competitive environment, helping businesses elevate their brand value and gain a significant advantage in the market.
- Encourage innovation: Protecting rights helps individuals and organizations feel secure when investing time, effort, and finance into researching and developing new products without the fear of their ideas being “stolen”.
- Protect consumers: Intellectual property rights help prevent counterfeit, imitation, and poor-quality goods, ensuring consumers have access to genuine products.
- Elevate national value: A strong protection system will help the country attract foreign direct investment (FDI), receive technology transfer, and facilitate global economic integration (WTO).
- What to Prepare for an Intellectual Property Registration Dossier?
The registration dossier will vary depending on the subject matter you want to protect:
- Trademark registration dossier: Requires a standard declaration form, 12 trademark samples (size 80 x 80 mm), a copy of the fee payment receipt, and a Power of Attorney (if filed through a representative).
- Copyright registration dossier: Requires a declaration form, 02 copies of the work, certified copies of the author’s ID/Passport, and a written agreement among co-authors (if any).
- Industrial design registration dossier: Requires a declaration form requesting the grant of an industrial design certificate, a description of the design, and 04 sets of photos/drawings of the design.
Depending on the type, the dossier will be submitted to the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam (for trademarks, patents, designs) or the Copyright Office of Vietnam (for works). The examination process can take from a few months to a year to complete.
- Prestigious, All-Inclusive Intellectual Property Registration Services at SBLAW
Preparing dossiers and tracking the complex examination process often takes a lot of time for businesses. As an Industrial Property Representation Organization recognized by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam, SBLAW is your most solid legal fulcrum.
With a team of highly experienced lawyers and experts, we are committed to providing the highest quality, most accurate, and timely consulting services. SBLAW not only helps you protect your legitimate rights but also creates favorable conditions for optimally commercializing your intellectual assets.
The creativity is yours; let SBLAW handle the protection! Contact our experts today for advice on the safest protection roadmap for your intellectual property:
- Hotline: 0904 340 664
- Email: info@sblaw.vn
