Mongolia may be a relatively small market, but global brands are increasingly seeking to protect and enforce intellectual property rights in the country. Our firm works directly with global brands as to trademark and patent registration in Mongolia, cancellations of prior registrations, and IP enforcement matters.
Enforcement is difficult. Due to the relatively small population in Mongolia (about 3 million people in the whole country with about half in one City, Ulaanbaatar), many local lawyers and law firms are often unwilling to pursue intellectual property enforcement actions or litigation in Mongolia. The small interconnected population means many lawyers are unwilling to proactively advocate on behalf of clients, for fear of making enemies. Most trademark and patents providers will simply file registrations. When they do file an enforcement action it is more “proforma” and less proactive advocacy.
One thing missing in Mongolia is a strong sense of the value of branding, and a clear understanding that brands deserve protection via copyright. The firm is acting on behalf of a group of brand owners who seek to create a new organization with the goal of raising awareness of the importance of intellectual property in Mongolia. The key to better protection is awareness.