Welcome to APEX Patent Solutions

Welcome to APEX Patent Solutions.

We are an international patent and trademark firm based in Japan, primarily supporting overseas businesses and entrepreneurs who are considering filing trademark applications in Japan.

Our goal is to make the Japanese trademark registration process smooth and reliable for foreign clients who wish to expand their brands into the Japanese market, including sellers on Amazon Japan.

Trademark_services_apex_patent_solutions

1. Trademark Filing in Japan

If you wish to protect your brand in Japan, the first step is filing a trademark application with the Japan Patent Office (JPO). There are two main routes:

  • Direct Filing with the JPO (Japan Patent Office)
    • You can file directly in Japan under the Japanese Trademark Law.
    • This is common for Amazon sellers, startups, and companies entering the Japanese market for the first time.
  • International Applications via the Madrid Protocol
    • If you already filed a trademark internationally, you may designate Japan under the Madrid Protocol.
    • This allows you to extend your protection to Japan through WIPO.

Important for Amazon sellers:
A Japanese trademark (either registered or pending) is required to access Amazon Japan Brand Registry. We assist foreign Amazon sellers by filing the necessary trademark applications in Japan, which is the key requirement to join the program.

2. Trademark Renewal in Japan

A registered Japanese trademark is valid for 10 years from the date of registration.
To maintain protection, you must file for renewal every 10 years.

  • Renewal application must be filed before the expiration date (or within the grace period with an additional fee).
  • The renewal process can be repeated indefinitely, ensuring long-term protection of your brand in Japan.

3. Trademark Enforcement and Brand Protection

Registering a trademark is not only about securing rights—it also enables enforcement against infringement.

In Japan, trademark owners may:

  • Send cease-and-desist letters to infringers
  • Request injunctions against unauthorized use
  • Seek damages for infringement

For Amazon sellers, having a registered trademark also allows reporting of intellectual property violations within the Amazon platform, helping to protect your brand against counterfeiters and unauthorized sellers.

4. Costs and Timeline for Trademark Registration in Japan

  • JPO Official Fees:
    • Application fee: JPY 3,400+JPY 8,600 per class
    • Registration fee(10-year): JPY 32,900 per class
  • Attorney Fees:
    • The actual costs vary depending on the type of trademark, the scope of designated goods/services, and whether priority is claimed.
      For this reason, we offer a free estimate service tailored to your specific case.
    • Please use our Free Quote Form to receive a customized cost estimate for your trademark application in Japan.
  • Timeline:
    • Standard examination: 6–12 months
    • Accelerated examination may be available if the trademark is already in use

See also: Trademark Registration Cost in Japan: Fees for Foreign Customers

5. Why Choose APEX Patent Solutions?

  • We are a licensed Japanese patent and trademark firm (Benrishi) authorized to represent foreign applicants before the JPO.
  • We have extensive experience supporting clients from Europe, North America, South America, and Asia and so on with successful trademark filings in Japan.
  • Our team provides clear communication, transparent fees, and practical advice tailored to your business needs.
  • Whether you are a global enterprise or an Amazon seller entering the Japanese market, we ensure that your trademark application is handled professionally and efficiently.

6. Contact Us for Trademark Services in Japan

If you are considering filing a trademark in Japan, APEX Patent Solutions is here to help.

Contact us today to receive a free quote (free estimate) and expert guidance from our experienced Japanese trademark attorneys.