Jamaica Trade Marks Act 2013 Amendments

The Trade Marks (Amendment) Act (2013), which took effect on August 31, 2013, updated the Jamaica's Trade Marks Act and Rules in several respects including changes in relation to opposition and revocation proceedings, the rights of an earlier user, registration of security interests and the assignability of trademark applications.

Changes in Opposition Proceedings

Prior to the amendments, an applicant had a non-extendable period of two months from the date of receipt of a Notice and Statement of Grounds of Opposition within which to file a counterstatement. This two-month period can now be extended. The potential opponent must seek the extension prior to the expiration of the initial two months outlining the reasons for requiring the extension.