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Italian customs launch online facility to request IP rights enforcement

ITALY - CUSTOMS ACTION

As from 1 March 2010, an online facility will make it quicker and easier to file, review and renew applications with the Italian Customs Authority for action against the importation of goods suspected of infringing intellectual property rights.

The Italian Customs Authority has announced that as from 1 March 2010 users will be able to apply on line to request customs action against the importation of goods suspected of infringing intellectual property rights under Regulation (EC) No 1383/2003 (the Customs Regulation).

The Authority’s online system, known as FALSTAFF (Fully Automated Logical SysTem Against Forgery and Fraud) will make procedures quicker and more efficient, enabling all customs offices to share information on requests for action concerning IP rights.  

Under the Customs Regulation, applications for customs to suspend the importation of goods infringing IP rights may be based on trademarks, designs (registered or unregistered), copyrights, patents, supplementary protection certificates, plant breeder’s rights, protected denominations of origin and protected geographical indications. The application must contain proof of validity of the intellectual property right within the territory concerned, as well as information necessary to distinguish infringing products from originals. In the application, customs action may be requested for one or several European Community member states. The application has a one-year duration and is renewable.
The new online procedure will enable applicants to

  • file and renew applications
  • review and amend the information contained in previous applications (e.g. update information on list of products for which action is requested)
  • check application status.

In order to access the online procedure, it is necessary to obtain a password from the Italian Customs Authority.

Should you require any assistance or further information on the enforcement of IP rights at Italian customs, please contact us.

16 February 2010