Morocco Sets New Official Charges for IP Services
24-Sep-2012
CASABLANCA - The Moroccan Industrial and Commercial Property Office (OMPIC) has modified its official charges related to different Intellectual Property (IP) services effective October 1st, 2012.
According to the new tariff, charges for filing patent, trademark and design will be increased. Meanwhile, lateness fees for filing of documents will be charged 50% of the global amount of official fees paid for the patent, trademark or design.
The most relevant changes are outlined as follows:
Patents:
- New service of search and opinion on patentability.
- New publication charges.
- Annuities will be paid per year instead of five years. In case of late payment of annuities, fees will be increased up to 25% with a minimum of 200 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD).
- Restoration fees will be equivalent of 100% of the annuity fees in addition to the lateness fees.
- Claims will be charged per claim instead of pages, as of the 10th claims.
Trademarks
- Filing and renewal charges will be paid per class.
Trademark Opposition:
- Charges for filing opposition, request of extension and suspension will be increased.
Assignment/merger/change of name/withdrawal:
- Charges for change of name, address or status will be decreased.
- Charges for assignment and withdrawals will be increased.
National Gazette:
- Fees for obtaining a copy of the national gazette either for patent, trademark and design will be increased.
In this regard, the Moroccan Ministry of Industry, Commerce and New Technologies is preparing a new law which will enter into force in 2013.
Abu-Ghazaleh Intellectual Property (AGIP) will amend its schedule of charges which will be posted on the website.
For more information on this matter, or any inquiries, please contact AGIP Morocco Office at the following address:
Address: ESPACE PORTE D’ANFA, No. 3 Rue Bab Mansour Casablanca 20050, Kingdom of Morocco
Tel: (00 212-5-22) 36 61 19/21/26
fax: (00 212-5-22) 36 61 33
P.O. Box: 19005 Casa El Hank, Kingdom of Morocco
E-mail: morocco@agip.com
Contact Person: Mr. Ahmad Hussein