In a simple way, a trademark can be defined as a signal used to identify and distinguish the goods and services provided by a particular entity. The extent of a trademark depends on the type of registration made. Thus, for example:
Trademark in Portugal, Angola, Mozambique, São Tomé and Príncipe, Guinea, Cape Verde and Macau – protection is limited to each national territory
Community trademark – protection throughout the European Union
Trademark in Benelux – protection throughout the Benelux region (Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg)
International trademark – a simple request, the possibility of designating 152 countries
Trademark Abroad – in any country in the world
A trademark, regardless of its length, may be renewed an indefinite number of times. The decision on the number of times the trademark is to be renewed is the competence of the trade mark proprietor.
Trademarks are often one of the most valuable assets of a company. Therefore, careful management of a portfolio of trademarks, combined with the realization of appropriate searches, can avoid serious subsequent legal problems.
