New opportunities after Brexit: Trademark re-registration to help expand brand protection to Pacific island countries

With the United Kingdom (UK) officially leaving the European Union in 2023, this not only marks a new chapter in the UK's political and economic landscape, but also opens up a new path for brand protection for global trademark holders. This change brings unprecedented opportunities, especially for those companies seeking market expansion in Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu.

1. Trademark re-registration opportunities after Brexit

After Brexit, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu, as re-registration countries of the UK, provide trademark owners with a simplified and efficient way to extend their brand protection. These countries require that trademark applications must be based on a valid UK trademark registration certificate, and local registration protection can be obtained through a certified copy. This process simplifies formal and substantive examinations, allowing trademark owners to achieve international extension of brand protection at a lower cost and in a shorter time.

II. Overview and Characteristics of Target Countries

1. Kiribati

Kiribati, an island country in the South Pacific, consists of 33 atolls and coral islands, spanning four hemispheres, and is a unique geographical wonder in the world. Although its land area is small (only 811 square kilometers), Kiribati has vast marine resources, making it an ideal place for brands seeking to expand into the ocean and tropical island markets.

2. Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands, a country consisting of many islands, is famous for its magnificent natural scenery. In particular, it has the world's largest saltwater lake, Lake Marovo, which attracts countless tourists and explorers. The Solomon Islands is not only a tourist destination, but also an excellent choice for brands seeking eco-friendly and multicultural market opportunities.

3. Tuvalu

Tuvalu, a Polynesian island nation located between Hawaii and Australia, consists of nine small coral atolls and is one of the smallest countries in the world in terms of both area and population. Despite its small size, Tuvalu is known for its unique culture and strong sense of community, and is also at the forefront of the fight against climate change. For brands that focus on sustainable development and social responsibility, Tuvalu is undoubtedly a market full of potential.

III. Specific requirements for trademark re-registration

1. Kiribati

Trade mark applications must be based on a valid UK trade mark registration.
It can cover multiple aspects such as goods and services, colors, shapes, sounds or smells.
Multiple category applications are not supported.
Kiribati is not a member of the Paris Convention.

2. Solomon Islands

Trademark applications must also be based on UK registration.
It can cover multiple categories of goods and services and support serial trademark applications.
The Solomon Islands is also not a member of the Paris Convention.

3. Tuvalu

Trademark application requirements are similar to those of Kiribati and Solomon Islands, both of which require registration based in the UK.
In certain circumstances, applications for Madrid international registrations designating the UK as the country of origin may also be accepted (but there are no confirmed cases yet).
Direct transfer from the Madrid International Registration System to a separate registration for Tuvalu is also not supported.

Brexit has brought new market opportunities to trademark holders. By re-registering UK trademarks, brands can easily expand to Pacific island countries such as Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu. This will not only help strengthen brand protection in these emerging markets, but also bring more market exposure and business opportunities to brands. For companies seeking global development, this is undoubtedly an important opportunity worth seizing.