The Madrid Protocol enters into force in Colombia

The Madrid Protocol enters into force in Colombia

Colombia is the second country in the Latin American region (after Cuba) to join the Madrid trademark filing system and became the 87th member of this international trademark system.

The treaty will enter into force with respect to Colombia, on August 29th, 2012.

Joining the Madrid Protocol is a positive development for Colombia, since this country has acknowledged the vital role trademarks play in its economy. The accession to this international trademark system will serve as a useful tool to promote the economic development of the country, taking in consideration the multiple advantages it offers.

As a matter of fact this achievement has been possible thanks to the support of the Colombia's private sector, which recognizes its benefits as an instrument to enhance the competitiveness of their enterprises.

Now, local companies looking to participate in the global market can file a single trademark application in one language, saving both time and money.

The Madrid system is equally attractive to large businesses, as to small and medium-sized enterprises, which are the largest users of the system. Despite challenging economic conditions, 2011 saw the highest number of international trademark applications ever filed under the Madrid system, with a 6.5% increase compared to 2010.