A new scale of official fees has been introduced by the Moroccan Industrial Property Office (OMPIC) with effect from 1 October 2012.
The new official fees have increased substantially and apply to both new and pending trade marks, patents and designs.
Trade Mark Applications/Registrations
In addition, the new Regulations state that fees for filing a trade mark application or renewal of a trade mark registration will be payable separately for each and every class. A single fee will no longer cover the first three classes.
Patent Applications/Patents
Previously, patent renewal fees fell due every five years, with the first renewal fees payable in advance at the time of filing and then every five years thereafter. The new Regulations require patent renewal fees to be paid annually on each anniversary of the filing date of the patent application. A six-month grace period is provided for late payment of patent renewals with a late fine and restoration of lapsed patents is also possible. For pending applications, if the renewals have already been paid for five years, the next renewal will become payable at the end of the five-year period. Surcharges are no longer payable on the length of the patent specification. However, surcharges are payable on each claim over ten.
If you have requested a quotation in relation to Morocco since 1 October 2012, you would have received our updated tariff.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
