Vietnam’s 2026 Trademark Reforms: Simplifying Procedures And Improving Examination Efficiency

Vietnam’s amended Intellectual Property Law, which took effect on April 1, 2026, introduces significant changes to the trademark registration system. The reforms are designed to streamline administrative procedures, shorten examination timelines, and provide businesses with a faster and more predictable path to trademark protection.

In this context, one of the most notable aspects of the new rules is the simplification of registration procedures and significant improvement in examination efficiency.

1. Shorter Substantive Examination Period

A major change under the amended law is the reduction of the statutory period for substantive examination of trademark applications from nine months to five months, calculated from the date of publication of the application.