Trademark Mediation Case successfully settles under the WIPO-Singapore ASEAN Mediation Programme

A second mediation case has successfully settled under the WIPO-Singapore ASEAN Mediation Programme (“AMP”). Under AMP, parties may claim up to SGD 8,000 of funding to mediate IP or technology-related disputes or contract negotiations.

The mediation related to trademarks used by two companies running food and beverage establishments in Singapore and the likelihood of confusion between the trademarks. Proceedings were commenced before a court in Singapore and the parties were encouraged to attempt mediation. The parties agreed to mediate under the WIPO Mediation Rules and applied for SGD 8,000 of funding under AMP.

The mediation proceeded smoothly, with the parties jointly agreeing on a Singapore mediator. The mediation session lasted approximately five hours and concluded with a successful settlement which addressed the interests of both parties.

The parties commented:

Mediation allows for much more cordial and friendly exchanges as opposed to litigation. We got to directly engage with the counterparty as well, something which would be unlikely to be possible in formal proceedings.

I thank WIPO and the appointed mediator for assisting to resolve the dispute through WIPO-Singapore ASEAN Mediation Programme, so that I can put the dispute to rest and focus on my business.

A detailed summary of the dispute has been published by the IP Office of Singapore.

AMP funding is now available through 2024 and the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center is available to answer any questions at arbiter.mail@wipo.int