Trademark Registration in Japan for UK Companies: Complete Guide | Apex patent solutions Japan

Welcome to APEX Patent Solutions

We are an international patent and trademark firm based in Japan, supporting UK companies, startups, and global brands with trademark registration and brand protection in Japan.

Whether you are a London-based fashion label, a premium food & beverage company, or a tech startup expanding to Asia, securing a trademark in Japan is essential for protecting your brand and accessing Amazon Japan’s Brand Registry.

Why UK Companies Should Register Trademarks in Japan

  • Fast-growing market: Japan remains one of the largest consumer markets in Asia, with high demand for foreign brands.
  • Amazon Japan expansion: Many UK sellers on Amazon need a Japanese trademark to join Amazon Brand Registry.
  • Prevent copycats: Without a Japanese trademark, third parties can register your brand first and block your sales.

Trademark Registration Options for UK Companies

UK businesses can apply for trademark protection in Japan in two main ways:

1. Direct Filing with the Japan Patent Office (JPO)

  • File directly in Japan, claiming priority from your UK application (Paris Convention).
  • Requires appointing a Japanese trademark attorney (Benrishi) to act as your local representative.

2. Madrid Protocol Filing (Designating Japan)

  • Since the UK remains part of the Madrid Protocol after Brexit, you can designate Japan in your international trademark application.
  • If the JPO issues a provisional refusal, you must appoint a Japanese attorney to respond.

The Process of Trademark Registration in Japan (for UK Applicants)

  1. Trademark Search – Check for conflicting marks already registered in Japan.
  2. Application Filing – Submit the trademark with the JPO.
  3. Examination – The JPO reviews absolute grounds (distinctiveness, public order) and relative grounds (conflicts with earlier marks).
  4. Office Action (if issued) – Respond with arguments, amendments, or rely on Japan’s new consent system (effective April 2024).
  5. Registration & Renewal – Pay registration fees to secure your rights for 10 years, renewable indefinitely.

Costs and Timeline

  • Application fee (JPO): JPY 3,400 + JPY 8,600 per class
  • Registration fee (JPO): JPY 32,900 per class (for 10 years)
  • Timeline: 6–12 months on average

Costs vary depending on the number of classes and whether you claim priority.
⇒Request a free estimate here

Why Work with APEX Patent Solutions?

  • Experienced in assisting UK companies entering Japan, from startups to global brands
  • Support in English with clear communication via email or online meetings
  • End-to-end trademark services: filing, responding to refusals, renewals, and brand monitoring

Next Steps for UK Businesses

If you are planning to expand to Japan, now is the right time to secure your trademark.

Get started today:
Contact APEX Patent Solutions for a free consultation and trademark estimate.

Related Resource for US Companies
If you are based in the United States, please see our dedicated guide:
⇒ Trademark Registration in Japan for US Companies