PRACTICE AREAS
Intellectual Property
We protect, manage, and commercialize the intangible assets that drive your business growth across Singapore, Vietnam, and the wider Southeast Asian region.
Operating at the intersection of European brand standards and dynamic Asian market expansion, our IP practice provides comprehensive counsel on safeguarding trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. From managing cross-border filing strategies to structuring high-value licensing portfolios, we ensure your innovations and brand identity remain secure and legally enforceable.
Our Core Expertise
International Trademark Portfolio Management
Designing and executing robust brand protection strategies, including local filings with IPOS and foreign extensions via the WIPO Madrid Protocol.
IP Commercialization & Licensing
Drafting and negotiating sophisticated IP assignment agreements, franchise arrangements, cross-licensing deals, and technology transfer contracts.
Trade Secrets & Data Asset Protection
Structuring internal compliance protocols, NDAs, and non-compete frameworks to protect proprietary technology, algorithms, and confidential business methods.
IP Audits & Due Diligence
Conducting meticulous IP audits during corporate restructurings, joint ventures, or M&A transactions to identify asset ownership risks and valuation gaps.
Navigating Singapore
The Speed of First-to-File Dynamics
Singapore operates strictly on a "first-to-file" system for trademarks. Delays in securing registrations before entering commercial discussions can leave your brand vulnerable to bad-faith registrations.
Complex Digital & Tech Licensing Scrutiny
As businesses deploy automated technologies or AI-driven services out of Singapore, licensing agreements must precisely define derivative data rights and algorithmic ownership to avoid costly disputes.
The Gold Standard for Regional IP Holding
Singapore is globally recognized as an elite IP hub. Its robust statutory framework, specialized IP courts, and extensive treaty network make it the premier jurisdiction for European firms to anchor global IP assets.
The Singapore IP Fast-Track
IPOS offers highly efficient acceleration programs allowing businesses to expedite trademark examinations, significantly reducing time-to-market for critical innovations.
Navigating Vietnam
Strict Local Formalism & Registrations
Vietnam's IP Office enforces strict, highly formalistic procedural requirements. Minor clerical inconsistencies in documentation can lead to office actions or extensive delays in securing approvals.
Enforcement Complexity & Counterfeit Risks
Protecting consumer brands in Vietnam requires a proactive strategy with continuous market monitoring and swift coordination with local authorities to address infringements.
Rapid Modernization & Global Alignment
Vietnam has significantly overhauled its IP Law to align with international standards mandated by EVFTA and CPTPP, providing stronger protection for sound marks, electronic filings, and enhanced customs enforcement.
The Power of International Treaties
The Madrid System offers European and international brands a highly cost-effective, centralized mechanism to extend trademark protection into Vietnam through a single application process.
