On July 16, 2025, the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) introduced significant updates to its trademark examination processes. These changes, coupled with a new practice notice published on July 23, 2025, aim to streamline operations and enhance efficiency in trademark registration. Below is an analysis of these developments and their implications for applicants.
Elimination of Accelerated Examination for Domestic Trademarks
The CIPO has announced the abolition of accelerated examination for domestic trademark applications. Until recently, applications listing only "acceptable" or pre-approved goods and services from the Goods and Services Manual (the “Manual”) were subject to expedited processing, resulting in shorter wait times. This practice was introduced in May 2021 as part of broader efforts to address a growing backlog caused by an influx of trademark filings following Canada’s accession to the Madrid System and amendments to the Trademarks Act. The backlog reached a peak of over 1,700 days in early 2024, one of the longest in the world.
The elimination of accelerated examination means that all domestic trademark applications - regardless of whether they list only pre-approved terms, custom terms, or a combination - will now be processed in a single queue. The CIPO anticipates that this change will standardize processing times, with all new applications potentially reaching examination within nine months.
Formalization of the Process for Submitting Pre-Approved Terms
In addition to ending accelerated examination, the CIPO has formalized a process for applicants to submit recommendations for goods and services to be included in the Goods and Services Manual. The agency will now accept submissions for new or specialized terms and will communicate acceptance or rejection within four weeks of receipt. This move aims to enhance the manual’s relevance and encourage broader use of standardized terms, ensuring that it remains a comprehensive resource.
Impact on Applicants
The shift away from accelerated examination could influence applicants’ strategies. Many had chosen to file applications listing only pre-approved goods and services to minimize wait times. With this option now eliminated, some may opt to include custom terms that better reflect their business operations, potentially leading to longer processing times but greater specificity in their registrations.
However, the CIPO’s new process for submitting recommendations suggests an effort to support applicants in using pre-approved terms. By streamlining this process and maintaining faster examination for such applications, the agency likely aims to maintain incentives for applicants to utilize standardized terminology without compromising on registration timelines.
Future Implications
The changes at CIPO underscore a broader push toward efficiency and modernization in trademark registration. While applicants may face some trade-offs, the potential for more predictable processing times could improve overall satisfaction with the system. The agency’s commitment to updating the Goods and Services Manual also suggests a proactive approach to addressing evolving market needs.
For businesses navigating this landscape, understanding how to leverage pre-approved terms effectively will remain crucial. By aligning their trademark applications with standardized classifications, companies can not only expedite registration but also ensure compliance with international standards, particularly as Canada continues to integrate with global intellectual property frameworks.
In summary, the CIPO’s updated practices aim to balance streamlined processing with comprehensive coverage of goods and services. As these changes take effect, applicants should remain attuned to how they structure their trademark filings while keeping an eye on future developments in trademark law.
The Importance of Proactive Trademark Monitoring
In today’s competitive market, protecting your intellectual property is not just about filing a trademark application - it’s about safeguarding your brand from potential conflicts and infringements. With the CIPO’s updated practices, businesses must adopt a more vigilant approach to trademark management. This is where IP Defender comes into play.
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IP Defender does not provide legal services or phone-based support - its focus is strictly on monitoring and protecting trademarks. With a cost-effective solution tailored to your needs, IP Defender empowers you to maintain control over your intellectual property while minimizing the risk of legal complications and financial losses.
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