Industrial Designs Law in Micronesia

Here’s an overview of the Industrial Designs Law in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM):

🇫🇲 Industrial Designs Law in the Federated States of Micronesia

📜 Legal Framework

Intellectual property, including industrial designs, in FSM is primarily governed by the Federated States of Micronesia Intellectual Property Code.

The FSM is a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) but is not a member of the Paris Convention.

FSM follows its own domestic laws for industrial designs rather than an international treaty system.

🎨 Definition of Industrial Design

An industrial design protects the aesthetic and ornamental aspects of an article.

This includes the shape, pattern, or color applied to a product.

The design must be new and original.

📝 Registration Process

Authority: The Federated States of Micronesia Department of Justice handles intellectual property matters.

Filing:

Application form specifying the design

Clear representation of the design (drawings/photos)

Payment of fees

Examination: Typically a formal examination.

Publication: Registered designs are published for public awareness.

Duration of Protection

Protection lasts for 5 years from the date of registration.

Renewable for additional periods (usually one or two renewals allowed, each of 5 years).

Total maximum protection term is typically up to 15 years.

🚫 Infringement and Enforcement

Unauthorized use or reproduction of a registered industrial design is considered infringement.

Enforcement can involve civil actions including injunctions and damages.

🌍 International Considerations

FSM’s lack of Paris Convention membership means no priority claim from foreign filings under that treaty.

Applicants seeking broader protection typically register separately in other jurisdictions.

Summary Table

AspectDetails
Governing LawFSM Intellectual Property Code
Responsible AuthorityFSM Department of Justice
Registration RequiredYes
Protection Period5 years (renewable up to 15)
Examination TypeFormal examination
International TreatiesWIPO member; no Paris Convention

 

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