Trade Marks Registry to correct data

October 28, 2011

The Trade Marks Registry will correct some inaccurate data found during internal audits of its register and expresses its regrets to parties who may be affected.  
 
The inaccuracies relate to the filing date of trade mark applications, priority claim and the description of certain marks on the register. Human error in the data entry and validation process is to blame.
 
A total of 78 registrations and 13 applications had been accorded a wrong filing date. Of these, 73 registrations and nine applications had been accorded a later filing date, while five registrations and four applications had been accorded an earlier filing date.
 
In 109 registrations and four applications, an amendment had been made to the original mark by adding a registered mark, affecting priority claim. The registry also discovered 34 registrations and 16 applications which should be described as single marks are indicated as "series marks".
 
The registry has sent notices concerning the proposed corrections to the relevant registered owners, applicants and affected parties according to the Trade Marks Ordinance. A notice will also be published in the Hong Kong Intellectual Property Journal.
 
Affected parties may make written objections to the proposed corrections within three months after the date of the notice. If no objections are received, the corrections will be made.
 
To prevent recurrence of similar errors, the registry has reminded all staff of the importance of accurate data entry, taken action to place additional prompts in its computer system to raise staff alertness, and drawn up more rigorous internal audit arrangements.