The Canadian Intellectual Property Office’s Trademarks Opposition Board has launched a new pilot project. This initiative aims to clean up the Register of Trademarks by removing inactive trademarks.

Project Overview

Starting January 2025, the Registrar will issue monthly section 45 notices on randomly selected registrations. These notices will target trademarks registered for over three years. Owners must prove use or justify non-use.

Categories and Process

The project will include trademarks based on use, proposed use, use and registration abroad, and multiple bases. New tools and modifications will make the process more efficient and cost-effective.

Data Collection and Future Plans

Data from the pilot project and third-party section 45 proceedings will be published for comparison. Consultations will follow to decide on the project’s future.

For more information, visit the Canadian Intellectual Property Office’s page.

This project aims to ensure the Register of Trademarks accurately reflects active trademarks. Stay tuned for updates!