On December 27, 2017, the Executive Order which modifies guidelines for the use of the Electronic Portal for Payments and Services (EPPS) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (MIIP), for trademark applications and its prosecution, was published in the Federal Official Gazette.

The referred Order regulates the filing, reception and prosecution of applications filed electronically through the EPPS and its related official actions and writs. As of February 1, 2017, the trademark applications that are filed online will be prosecuted, until their conclusion, in this form. This means that, should the registration of a mark be granted, the respective registration certificate will be issued electronically. Certain matters, such as oppositions, recordation of changes of ownership and renewals, will continued to be filed physically. Applications that are filed in paper will continue to be prosecuted by physical means.

Additionally, on January 31, 2017, a new Executive Order, by which the Online Mailbox of the MIIP is implemented, was issued. Through this tool, it will be possible to file applications or writs. The respective originals must be filed the next working day. It is important to mention that the Mailbox will not apply to those applications filed and prosecuted online.

These changes are part of the actions of the Mexican government towards the establishment of a National Digital Strategy to foster the adoption and development of information and communication technologies. At Basham, we have the necessary tools for the efficient implementation of these changes.

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.