AGEPI Moldova implements CP17 to Further Strengthen Trade Mark Examination Practices

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has facilitated the implementation of Common Practice 17 (CP17) in the Republic of Moldova in collaboration with its State Agency on Intellectual Property (AGEPI). This activity contributes to the Republic of Moldova’s continued alignment with the practices of the EUIPN and further strengthens the quality, consistency and transparency of trade mark examination.

CP17 focuses on the distinctive character of slogans, providing a common understanding of the principles applied when assessing whether a slogan can function as a trade mark. The common practice sets out harmonised assessment criteria, supported by practical examples, to promote a consistent examination approach across participating intellectual property (IP) offices. Its implementation helps enhance legal certainty, consistency and predictability for both examiners and trade mark users.

The implementation of CP17 builds on the successful extension of Common Practice 14 (CP14) to the Republic of Moldova, further advancing the convergence of trade mark examination practices between AGEPI and the EUIPN. Together with the earlier implementation of Common Practices CP5, CP9 and CP14, this latest milestone reflects the Republic of Moldova’s continued commitment to aligning its IP system with that of the EU in the context of its accession process. As part of this effort, the EUIPO and AGEPI have adapted the CP17 practice paper, which aims to promote a consistent and transparent approach to assessing the distinctive character of slogans for the benefit of both users and examiners. The practice paper is available below in English and Romanian.

Through the EU-funded EU4IP project, the EUIPO continues to support AGEPI in adopting common practices that enhance the efficiency, consistency and reliability of trade mark examination. Together with the EU national and regional IP offices, the EUIPO promotes the convergence of trade mark and design practices internationally, as set out in Article 151(2) of the European Union trade mark regulation. The extension of CP17 to the Republic of Moldova forms part of this broader effort to facilitate a more seamless application and registration process for users of IP systems within the EU and beyond.

The EUIPO, including under the EU-funded EU4IP project, remains committed to supporting the Republic of Moldova in strengthening IP protection, fostering innovation and advancing alignment with European best practices.