INTRODUCTION
The Russian civil code defines a trademark as a sign which
serves to individualize goods and services of legal entities and
entrepreneurs. In other words a trademark is a perceptible sign
which is capable of distinguishing goods and services of one
undertaking from those of another. The Russian law says any
designations including but not limited to verbal, device, combined,
three dimensional signs can enjoy protection as trademarks. A
trademark can be claimed in color, color combination or just in
black & white.
Russia is a first to file country. That implies that those who
first apply for registration of a trademark gain priority right to
get the mark registered. For this reason it is very essential to
file trademark applications without delay even though the trademark
owner does not intend to use its trademark on the Russian market
right now. This is especially very important due to the fact that
the Russian trademark legislation does not recognize
