BN Intellectual Property

17/03/2026

Trademark Registration in Macau: Navigating Absolute and Relative Grounds for Refusal

Absolute Grounds for Refusal
Absolute grounds for refusal in trademark registration pertain to marks composed exclusively of generic, descriptive, usual, or weak elements, including colors, unless combined in a distinctive manner with each other, graphics, words, or other elements.

Relative Grounds for Refusal
Relative grounds for refusal involve specific situations: reproduction of a notorious mark causing confusion, use of a mark to take undue advantage of another prestigious mark, potential inducement of error regarding product attributes, reproduction or imitation of an earlier registered mark causing confusion, and the use of medals, prizes, surnames, titles, honors, or trade names of third parties.

For more details on this Trademark Registration in Macau: Navigating Absolute and Relative Grounds for Refusal, please see here:https://ow.ly/K4gP50Qqeng

This article does not represent legal advice and cannot be construed as such. Please contact an attorney to obtain guidance on these matters.

13/03/2026

Check our video on "Complete IP Protection Guide for International Performers in Macau"

If you would like more information, please get in touch with us at [email protected] or visit our website https://ow.ly/lxxf50VAxlK

11/03/2026

Luxury Brands – Intellectual Property In Macau

Counterfeiting and Anti-Counterfeiting Measures
Counterfeiting does not pose a significant threat to luxury brands in Macau SAR since Macau SAR has implemented robust anti-counterfeiting measures.

Macau SAR's Customs Service plays a crucial role in intercepting counterfeit goods at ports of entry and actively collaborate with luxury brand representatives to identify and seize counterfeit products.

While there is no formal registration process with Customs in Macau, it is customary for well-known brands to submit a notice to the Customs Bureau with the following information:
• IPR they have registered in Macau and their scope.
• the products being sold within Macau.
• details regarding the locations or methods of sale (namely online).
• which company ships the items to Macau.
• relevant contacts, namely local counsel, in case they detect imports that do not align with the information being provided.

Additionally, Customs appreciates when brand owners personally visit them to provide live explanations on how to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit products, as well as parallel imports.

It is also advisable to indicate a relevant expert that can assist Customs and the IPO in case of any infringement and provide expert testimony on whether a product made available for sale is or not an original product.

For more details, please click the link: https://maifile.cn/est/a6628d46cab78d/pdf

This article does not represent legal advice and cannot be construed as such. Please contact an attorney to obtain guidance on these matters.

If you would like to know more about legal aspects that impact Luxury Brands please email us at [email protected].

10/03/2026

Macau Domain Name Application: A Comprehensive Guide

With the rapid development of the internet era, having an independent domain name has become crucial for businesses and individuals in building their brands. A domain name is not only the "address" of a website but also an essential element in enhancing brand recognition and online credibility. For individuals and enterprises planning to operate or expand their influence in Macau, applying for a Macau domain name is particularly necessary. This article will provide you with a detailed guide on the steps, requirements, and considerations for applying for a Macau domain name.

1.What is a Macau Domain Name?
A Macau domain name is a top-level domain (TLD) ending in ".mo," specifically used to identify internet services related to Macau. Macau domain names are mainly classified into the following categories:
• .mo: Applicable to local enterprises, organizations, and individuals in Macau.
• .com.mo: Designed for commercial entities and enterprises, similar to the globally popular ".com" domain.
• .net.mo: For internet-related network service providers.
• .org.mo: Used by non-profit organizations.
Applying for these domain names not only strengthens the regional attributes of your brand but also increases visibility in the Macau market.

For details, please check here https://ow.ly/mEcj50TGoCT

This article does not represent legal advice and cannot be construed as such. Please contact an attorney to obtain guidance on these matters.

BN Intellectual Property
Avenida da Praia Grande, n.os 309-315, Nan Yue Com. Ctr. 7.o andar D, Macau
+853 28331808
[email protected]
www.bn-ip.com

Thank you all!

26/02/2026

Complete IP Protection Guide for International Performers in Macau

Macau's Entertainment Boom Demands Smart IP Strategies

As part of their contractual obligations under the gaming concession agreements, casinos in Macau SAR are required to invest heavily in non-gaming activities. This includes developing world-class infrastructure for culture, art, and entertainment, such as large-scale arenas, convention and exhibition centres affiliated with casino operators. These venues frequently host international music acts, concerts, and large-format shows, offering unique opportunities for global performers.

Comprehensive Protection Strategy
1. Copyright Safeguards
Copyright protection is automatic under Decree-Law No. 43/99/M (Copyright Code). Nevertheless, for enforcement purposes, we recommend:
• Blockchain timestamping of unreleased songs and demos
• Archival records of compositions and lyrics
• Public declarations of authorship for legal presumptions

2. Performance-Specific Protections
Casino-affiliated venues often lack uniform internal IP enforcement, so artists must secure their own protection through:
• Clauses in contracts prohibiting unauthorised recording and broadcasting (Articles 178-179)
• Merchandise restrictions based on Macau's Industrial Property Code, particularly Articles 175-199
• Requiring audience management through wristbands and digital watermarking tools

3. Trademark Registration
Artists or bands seeking to protect their stage name or performance identity should file a trademark application under Class 41 (Nice Classification) for entertainment services. This follows the standard process in Macau:
• Filing through the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT)
• Proof of use via two or more works featuring the name
• Consent documentation if the name mimics a real individual

4. Enforcement and Remedies
• Takedown procedures for illegal streams and recordings
• Civil litigation under Article 209 for appropriation or counterfeiting of protected works, with fines up to MOP 500,000
• Use of border control measures under TRIPS for imported infringing merchandise

International Framework Alignment
Macau is a party to the Berne Convention, the Rome Convention, and the TRIPS Agreement, which ensures cross-border recognition of copyright and performance rights.

Artist Protection Package
✓ Pre-tour IP audit
✓ Tailored contracts for Macau performances
✓ Enforcement preparation
✓ Merchandise protection

Contact our team ahead of your Macau tour to ensure your work is protected on and off the stage.

For details, please check here https://ow.ly/cwgU50VG6iv

This article does not represent legal advice and cannot be construed as such. Please contact an attorney to obtain guidance on these matters.

BN Intellectual Property
Avenida da Praia Grande, n.os 309-315, Nan Yue Com. Ctr. 7.o andar D, Macau
+853 28331808
[email protected]
https://ow.ly/RbYj50VG6iu

Thank you all!

25/02/2026

Macau Trademark Change of Name or Address: Comprehensive Guide

As one of a company's most valuable assets, a trademark represents the company's image and reputation. While operating a business, a business may need to change its name or address for various reasons. At this time, the name or address of the trademark also needs to be changed accordingly to maintain the accuracy and consistency of the trademark information. This article will provide you with the knowledge you need to change the name or address of a trademark in Macau. It will define the procedure, set out the timing, and list the documents you will require.

1. Please clarify what is meant by a trademark change of name or address.

A trademark name or address change refers to the behavior of a trademark registrant applying to the relevant trademark management department to make corresponding changes to the trademark registration information after the company name or address has changed. This change ensures the accuracy and timeliness of trademark information, thereby avoiding legal risks that may arise from inconsistent information.

2. Process of changing trademark name or address

2.0 Prepare documents: Trademark registrants must prepare relevant change documents, including documents proving the change of company name or address, trademark registration certificate, and applicant’s identity certificate.
2.1 Submit application: Once the documents have been prepared, the trademark registrant must submit a trademark change application to the Macau Intellectual Property Office.
2.2 Review and Approval: After receiving the application, the Macao Intellectual Property Office will review the submitted documents. The review will focus on the authenticity and legality of the changed documents, as well as ensuring that the changed trademark information complies with the provisions of the Trademark Law. Once the review is complete, the Macau Intellectual Property Office will approve the trademark change application.

For details, please check here https://ow.ly/PTy650SpJVu

This article does not represent legal advice and cannot be construed as such. Please get in touch with an attorney to obtain guidance on these matters.

BN Intellectual Property
Avenida da Praia Grande, n.os 309-315, Nan Yue Com. Ctr. 7.o andar D, Macau
+853 28331808
[email protected]
www.bn-ip.com

Thank you all!

11/02/2026

Luxury Brands – Intellectual Property In Macau

Protecting intellectual property (IP) is crucial for luxury brands operating in Macau SAR to safeguard their unique brand identities, trademarks, and reputation. Macau SAR has established legal frameworks and measures to enforce IP rights and combat counterfeiting, ensuring a conducive environment for luxury brands to flourish.

Trademark Registration
Trademark registration is a fundamental step for luxury brands seeking IP protection in Macau SAR. The region operates under a first-to-file system, emphasizing the importance of timely trademark registration to secure exclusive rights to brand names, logos, and other distinctive elements. Luxury brands should engage actively protect their IP Rights and proceed with relevant filings.

Protecting your patents
One of the most interesting features of Macau Chinese Invention Patent Application or Grant can be extended into Macau, pursuant to Macau’s Industrial Property Legal Act and the Cooperation Agreement between SIPO and Macau’s IPO.

Protection granted to Famous and Well-Known Marks
Famous and Well-Known marks have special protection under the laws of Macau in the sense that, even if unregistered, they can be used to oppose the registration of identical or similar marks

For more details, please click the link:https://ow.ly/lPye50RmX5k

This article does not represent legal advice and cannot be construed as such. Please contact an attorney to obtain guidance on these matters.

If you would like to know more about legal aspects that impact Luxury Brands please email us at [email protected].

09/02/2026

Time to remember our second article for the Luxury Law Alliance and Summit "Protecting luxury brands’ IP in Macau"

https://ow.ly/Nsbh50QqcE3

Low registration fees and an active customs office are among the reasons IP protection is a simple strategy in Macau, writes local lawyer Bruno Nunes

27/01/2026

Macao Trademark Assignment: Comprehensive Analysis

Trademarks, as intangible assets of enterprises, carry the image and reputation of enterprises and are an important support for the development of enterprises. In the process of trademark use, trademark assign is a common transaction method that allows the assignment of trademark ownership from one subject to another. This document will analyze the concept, specific process, and required documents of the Macao trademark assignment to help you better understand and operate trademark transfer.

1. The concept of Macao trademark assign
Trademark assignment refers to the act of the trademark registrant assigning the exclusive right of the trademark to others by the law. This transfer behavior means that the ownership of the trademark right has changed. The original trademark registrant will no longer enjoy the exclusive right of the trademark, and the assignee will become the new trademark holder and enjoy all the rights and interests of the trademark. As a special administrative region of my country, Macao's trademark assignment is subject to the Intellectual Property Law of the Macao Special Administrative Region. When assigning trademarks in Macao, the following points should be noted: Firstly, all trademark transfers must adhere to the principles of voluntariness, equality, fairness, honesty, and trustworthiness. Secondly, all assignments must be approved and announced by the Trademark Office before they can have legal effect. Finally, the assignee is responsible for continuing to perform the obligations of the original trademark registrant, such as paying trademark renewal fees on time, etc. The specific process of trademark assignment in Macau.

For details, please check here https://ow.ly/1EkC50SpJYh

This article does not represent legal advice and cannot be construed as such. Please contact an attorney to obtain guidance on these matters.

BN Intellectual Property
Avenida da Praia Grande, n.os 309-315, Nan Yue Com. Ctr. 7.o andar D, Macau
+853 28331808
[email protected]
www.bn-ip.com

Thank you all!

22/01/2026

Check our video on "Macau Domain Name Application: A Comprehensive Guide"

If you would like more information, please get in touch with us at [email protected] or visit our website https://ow.ly/lxxf50VAxlK