Intellectual Property Laws at Wallis and Futuna (France)
Wallis and Futuna, as a French overseas collectivity, adheres to the intellectual property (IP) laws of France and the European Union. The French legal framework is aligned with international IP treaties, ensuring comprehensive protection for various forms of intellectual property.
🏛️ Governing Authorities
INPI (National Institute of Industrial Property):Responsible for the registration and protection of industrial property rights in France, including patents, trademarks, and designs
INPI Wallis and Futuna Delegation:Oversees IP matters specific to Wallis and Futuna, ensuring compliance with French national laws and international treaties
📜 Key IP Legislation
Code de la Propriété Intellectuelle (CPI) The French Intellectual Property Code governs the protection of IP rights in France and its territories, including Wallis and Futun.
European Union Regulations As part of France, Wallis and Futuna is subject to EU regulations concerning IP, such as the European Patent Convention and the Community Trademark Regulatio.
🌍 International Treatie
France, and by extension Wallis and Futuna, is a signatory to several international treaties that facilitate IP protection:
*Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property: Provides a right of priority for patent and trademark applicatios.
*Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works: Ensures that works originating in one member country are given the same protection in other member countris.
**Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)*: Facilitates the filing of international patent applicatios.
*Madrid Protocol: Allows for the international registration of trademars.
⚖️ Enforcement and Remedie
IP rights in Wallis and Futuna are enforced through French national and EU legal systes:
*Civil Actions: Right holders can seek injunctions and damages through the courts.
*Criminal Sanctions: Penalties for severe infringements, including fines and imprisonmet.
*Customs Measures: Customs authorities can seize counterfeit goods at bordes.
*Alternative Dispute Resolution: Mediation and arbitration services are available for resolving IP disputs.
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