COVID-19. Mexican Patent and Trademark Office (IMPI) Update

March 27, 2020

Dear clients and friends,

As we previously informed, on March 23, 2020, in view of the contingency measures adopted to prevent the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus, the Mexican Patent and Trademark Office (IMPI) issued a decree suspending and interrupting terms from March 24 to April 19, 2020 and stating that the office would remain open to the public, being possible to file applications and briefs.

However, the Mexican Federal Government is reinforcing the adopted measures and as a consequence, yesterday, March 26, 2020, the Mexican Patent and Trademark Office (IMPI) has issued an additional decree suspending now all its activities from March 27 to April 19, 2020. Consequently, it will not be possible to file motions until April 20, 2020. On-line new applications can still be pre-filed; however, they will have to be digitally signed on April 20, when application number will be assigned by IMPI.

The decree is also stating that IMPI could summon a limited staff so as to attend procedures which: a) are necessary to mitigate the consequences of the pandemic and b) those related to the release of preliminary injunctions imposed by IMPI during an infringement proceeding.

The decree has been published in the Mexican Industrial Gazette and it is expected that tomorrow is published in the Federal Official Gazette.

OLIVARES is and will continue operating in accordance to our Operations Continuity Plan, guaranteeing the health and safety of our staff.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need assistance. Our OLIVARES COVID-19 Special Task Force is available to respond to the needs of our clients.