Trademarks Law in French Guiana (France)
Sure! Here’s an overview of trademark law applicable in French Guiana, which is an overseas department of France:
Trademark Law in French Guiana (France)
1. Legal Framework
French Guiana is an overseas department and region of France, so it is fully subject to French law and the European Union (EU) legal framework.
Trademarks in French Guiana are governed by:
French Intellectual Property Code (Code de la propriété intellectuelle)
EU regulations on trademarks
Relevant international treaties such as the Paris Convention, Madrid Protocol, and TRIPS Agreement
2. Trademark Protection
Trademarks registered in France or through the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) apply automatically in French Guiana.
French Guiana does not have a separate trademark registry; trademarks are registered through the Institut National de la Propriété Industrielle (INPI) for national trademarks or via EUIPO for EU trademarks.
3. Types of Trademarks
Words, logos, letters, numbers
Sounds, shapes, colors
Combinations of the above
4. Registration Process
Trademark applications are filed with the INPI (for national trademarks) or EUIPO (for EU trademarks).
Examination includes formal and substantive checks.
Publication for opposition lasts 2 months.
Successful registration grants protection throughout France, including French Guiana.
5. Duration and Renewal
Trademark protection lasts 10 years from the filing date.
Renewable indefinitely for successive 10-year periods upon payment of fees.
6. Rights and Enforcement
Owners have exclusive rights to use and license the trademark.
Protection covers French Guiana fully.
Infringement remedies include injunctions, damages, and criminal penalties.
Enforcement is through French courts and administrative authorities.
7. International Registrations
French Guiana is covered under France’s designation in the Madrid Protocol, allowing international trademark protection.
Summary
Because French Guiana is part of France and the EU, trademark law there is effectively the same as in metropolitan France. Registration through INPI or EUIPO covers French Guiana without additional filings.
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