Following the excellent reception of our recent international meeting in Marrakech the professional calendar brings us together again, this time at home. On 26 and 27 February, Madrid becomes the meeting point for Industrial and Intellectual Property (IP) during the XLI Study Days of the Spanish Group of the AIPPI.
This edition has been marked by a technical programme of the highest level and, above all, by the need to respond to the challenges that new technologies and legislative changes pose for law firms and companies.
An in-depth analysis of Distinctive Signs.
Early in the conference there were several sessions on the Analysis of Trademarks and other Distinctive Signs, which proved to be of great practical use.
Among the main topics, we were able to delve into:
- Acquired distinctiveness: We addressed the current criteria in the substantive examination of distinctiveness through use of a trademark.
- Geographical Indications: We discussed the recent EUIPO implementation of geographical indications for artisanal and industrial products, a key advance for the protection of traditional know-how.
- Advertising and competition: We explored the limits of imitation in advertising, navigating the fine line between free competition and exclusive IP rights.
The future of inventions and the impact of AI.
The evolution of the patent system was also addressed, with presentations on the following topics being particularly relevant:
- Inventive Activity: We reviewed the criteria of the Spanish Supreme Court and the challenges of harmonisation between the Boards of Appeal of the EPO and the Unified Patent Court.
- Artificial Intelligence: A key point was to analyse the risks and safeguards in the use of AI by us, IP professionals, in view of the rapid progression of these tools in our daily practice.
Conclusions and Networking
In summary, this conference has provided us with an up-to-date snapshot of the legal situation in Spain.
In addition, the Spanish Group of the AIPPI has released its Q293 Report on Compulsory Licences, a legal solution that the law provides for situations of emergency or public necessity. This debate, in which I had the opportunity to participate as an Intellectual Property Lawyer in Madrid, emphasises the importance of standardising international regulations.
Beyond the enriching presentations, I am left with the personal value of this experience. The networking space and the moments shared, undoubtedly strengthen the bonds of our community. I return to the office with new perspectives and the satisfaction of seeing that the protection of innovation in Spain has committed, and constantly evolving, professionals.
