Due to the escalating conflict in Lebanon, the Lebanese IPO has been facing significant operational challenges including staff shortages and frequent server shutdowns, which have caused delays in the processing of applications and requests. As a result, all deadlines have been suspended effective from 23 September 2024 until the situation stabilizes and operations return to normal.

Despite exceptional circumstances, right holders are encouraged to continue sending their instructions as usual. Our team will ensure that new files are docketed and ready for processing as soon as full operations resume.

EUIPO Announces Temporary Extension of Deadlines

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has recently announced a temporary extension of deadlines which will ensure that IPR owners and their authorized representatives impacted by the ongoing situation in Lebanon will not be penalized for missed deadlines. This mainly concerns new filings claiming priority from EU applications and affects IP agents with a registered address or residence in Lebanon, representing rights owners in Lebanon.

Key details of the extension:

• All deadlines expiring between 1 October 2024 and 1 December 2024 will be automatically extended
• The extended deadlines will now expire on 2 December 2024
• This decision, in line with Article 101(3) of the European Union Trade Mark Regulation (EUTMR) and Article 58(2) and (4) of the Community Designs Implementing Regulation (CDIR), aims to mitigate any disruption caused by recent operational interruptions

By: Sara Omran

For more information, please contact Sara Omran at our UAE office.