Benelux Intellectual Property Office publishes 2024 annual summary report

The Benelux Intellectual Property Office recently released its 2024 annual report, showing steady progress in trademark and design applications and excellent financial performance.

1. Trademarks

In 2024, the BOIP received approximately 20,225 trademark applications, down slightly from 20,407 in 2023. By country of origin, the Netherlands, accounting for 66%, became the primary market, with applications showing a rising trend. A decline in Belgium reflects a shift in the market landscape, while Luxembourg remained stable. In terms of languages of application, Dutch and French predominated, with English relatively less used. Registrations declined slightly to 18,385, while renewals remained stable at 13,052. 1,648 international applications were filed through the BOIP, primarily in the five major categories of advertising/commercial services, education and entertainment, clothing and footwear, scientific research and IT equipment, and computer and engineering services. Challenges arose from the continued rise in rejection rates, with absolute rejections accounting for 8.48% and final rejections accounting for 5.54%. Furthermore, the 792 objections raised were primarily based on Benelux and international trademarks, while cancellation proceedings were primarily due to non-payment of fees and validity issues.

2. Designs

Although the number of Benelux design applications rose slightly to 886 in 2024, the number of renewals was lower than last year. Throughout the year, furniture, graphic symbols and patterns, lighting equipment, decorative items, and clothing and accessories still dominated.

3. i-DEPOT

The use of i-DEPOT has decreased slightly, but it still plays an important role in protecting innovative ideas, with Belgian applicants being the main source.

IV. Organisation

The agency operates stably in The Hague, with a staff size maintained at 76 people, and continues to cooperate with the Benelux regional economic department to ensure efficient execution of business.

5. Financial Statements

The BOIP achieved strong financial results in 2024, with total revenue exceeding budget by €19.17 million. This was driven by stable application and renewal income, as well as excellent investment returns and pension fund performance. The surplus reached €7.91 million, a significant increase compared to the previous year, further strengthening the BOIP's financial foundation.

Overall, the BOIP is expected to maintain steady progress in trademark and design applications in 2024. In particular, the BOIP maintains a stable application volume despite rejections and oppositions, demonstrating market vitality and the importance attached to intellectual property protection. For businesses and applicants, this steadfast market expansion and sustained performance growth provide strong support for future business.