The EUIPO Supports AGEPI in Implementing CP14 to Strengthen Trade Mark Examination Practices

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has facilitated the implementation of Common Practice 14 (CP14) in the Republic of Moldova in collaboration with the State Agency on Intellectual Property (AGEPI). This activity, facilitated with the support of the EU-funded EU4IP project, contributes to Moldova’s continued alignment with the European Union Intellectual Property Network (EUIPN) practices and improves quality, consistency and transparency of trade mark examination processes.

CP14 focuses on trade marks contrary to public policy or to accepted principles of morality, providing guidance on the common understanding of these concepts, their relationship, the criteria for their assessment, including illustrative examples. Its implementation helps ensure greater legal certainty and predictability for both examiners and users.

The initiative builds on AGEPI’s earlier alignment with other Common Practices of the European Union Intellectual Property Network (EUIPN), including CP5 and CP9 and forms part of a broader convergence process supported by the EUIPO. Moldova’s engagement in this process supports the ongoing efforts under the EU accession process and reflects Moldova’s commitment to align its IP system with that of the European Union. As part of this effort, the EUIPO and AGEPI have adapted the CP14 practice paper, which aims to increase clarity, transparency, legal certainty and predictability for the benefit of the users and examiners. The practice paper is available below in English and Romanian.

The EUIPO-led EU4IP project is crucial in supporting Moldova’s intellectual property office in adopting common practices that enhance the efficiency and reliability of trade mark and design registration. Together with the EU national and regional IP offices (EUIPN), the EUIPO promotes the convergence of trade mark and design practices internationally, as set out in Article 151.2 of the EU Trade Mark Regulation. The extension of CP14 to Moldova is part of this broader effort to facilitate a more seamless application and registration process for IP system users within the EU and beyond. The EUIPO, through EU4IP, remains committed to supporting Moldova in enhancing IP protection, fostering innovation, and ensuring alignment with European best practices.