Nepal Cracks Down on Trademark Violations After Complaints from Global Giants Like Coca-Cola, Zoom and Hugo Boss, Department of Industry Issues 7-Day Ultimatum to 11 Firms
Nepal’s Department of Industry has issued a 7-day ultimatum to 11 domestic companies after receiving trademark infringement complaints from major global brands including The Coca-Cola Company, Zoom Communications, and Hugo Boss. Authorities say the firms failed to respond to earlier legal notices, prompting a public warning of one-sided legal action if they do not submit clarification within the deadline. The move signals a stricter stance on intellectual property protection in Nepal as cases of brand imitation continue to rise.
Key Complaints:
– The Coca-Cola Company vs Premier Organs Pvt. Ltd. (Sunsari) – “Palpal Cola”
– The Coca-Cola Company vs Pathibhara Food & Packaging – “Cool Cola” & “Super Fantastic”
– Zoom Communications vs Kavish Marketing Pvt. Ltd. (Jhapa) – “Kavish Zoom Cosmetics”
– Hugo Boss vs Imanur Fashion Wear (Jhapa) – “Boss”
– Turner Entertainment vs Naulo Foods (Chitwan) – “Kingcorn Lottery”
– Turner Entertainment vs Pavitra Laxmi Food Products (Bhaktapur) – “Jerry’s Cone”
– Energy Brands vs Aqua Nepal Bisleri (Rupandehi) – “ANBS Good Drinks”
– Energy Brands vs Manohara Food & Beverage (Kathmandu) – “DG Smart H2O”
– Kathmandu Limited vs Om Mangalakali Textile (Kathmandu) – “The One Kathmandu”
– Trek Bicycle Corporation vs Turbo Trek (Birgunj) – “Turbo Trek”
Officials warn that failure to comply could lead to legal action under existing laws, highlighting Nepal’s growing focus on protecting both international and domestic trademarks.