As Indian startups, exporters, D2C brands and digital businesses go global, one question becomes extremely important:
How do you protect your brand in multiple countries?
If you register a trademark in India only, your brand remains unprotected in:
- USA
- Europe
- Middle East
- Asia-Pacific
- Africa and other international regions
Filing separate trademark applications in every country is expensive, time-consuming and legally complicated.
That is where the Madrid Protocol trademark system becomes the smartest solution for global businesses.
It allows you to apply for trademark protection in multiple countries through one single application.
This long-form guide explains:
- what Madrid Protocol trademark is
- who should use it
- how Indian businesses can apply
- costs, process and benefits
- mistakes to avoid
- whether it suits your business
related post: Apply for Trademark Online — Why It’s the Easiest and Most Convenient Way to Register Your Brand in India
What is Madrid Protocol Trademark
The Madrid Protocol is an international treaty administered by WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization).
It allows trademark owners to:
- file one application
- in one language
- pay one set of fees
- and protect the brand in multiple countries
Instead of filing separately in each nation, Madrid Protocol gives a central international filing system.
Today, it covers 130+ member countries, including:
- United States
- Canada
- European Union
- United Kingdom
- UAE
- Singapore
- Japan
- Australia
- China
- Brazil
For Indian brands looking to expand globally, the Madrid Protocol trademark route is highly beneficial and practical.
Why Madrid Protocol Matters for Indian Businesses
Indian businesses are increasingly becoming global through:
- Amazon FBA and ecommerce exports
- SaaS and technology startups
- international franchising
- manufacturing and brand licensing
- D2C brands selling worldwide
- overseas subsidiaries
Without international trademark protection, risks include:
- brand copying
- domain hijacking
- product counterfeits
- legal disputes in foreign markets
- loss of brand ownership internationally
Madrid Protocol trademark helps protect brand identity beyond India.
Who Can Apply Under Madrid Protocol Trademark from India
To apply under Madrid Protocol, an applicant must have either:
- a registered trademark in India
or - a pending Indian trademark application
This is called the basic trademark application or base registration.
Eligible applicants include:
- proprietors
- partnership firms
- LLPs
- private limited / limited companies
- startups
- individuals
So if you already applied for a trademark in India, you can extend protection globally via Madrid Protocol.
Benefits of Madrid Protocol Trademark for Indian Entrepreneurs
Single Application, Multiple Countries
One application covers any number of member countries.
Lower Filing and Legal Cost
Far cheaper than filing separate country-wise applications.
Simplified Administration
Single:
- renewal
- modification
- ownership change management
Centralized Communication
WIPO coordinates communication between all countries.
Add More Countries Later
As your business grows, existing registration can be expanded.
Strong Global Brand Identity
Protects brand reputation in multiple markets.
Ideal for Digital and Export Businesses
Especially helpful for:
- exporters
- SaaS companies
- D2C brands
- aggregators
- franchise brands
Step-by-Step Process — Madrid Protocol Trademark Filing from India
Here is the process in simple language.
Step 1 — Apply or Register Trademark in India
Indian application becomes the base for Madrid Protocol filing.
Step 2 — Identify Countries of Interest
Choose countries where:
- you sell now
- plan expansion soon
- distributors or partners exist
Step 3 — File International Application Through IP India
File via the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks.
Step 4 — Application is Forwarded to WIPO
WIPO checks formal compliance and issues International Registration Number.
Step 5 — Designated Countries Examine Application
Every selected country examines the mark separately.
Step 6 — Approval or Objection
Countries may:
- approve
- partially accept
- raise objections
Step 7 — Trademark Protection Granted
Upon approval, your trademark is protected in those countries.
Important Point — Madrid Protocol Does Not Guarantee Approval Everywhere
Madrid Protocol simplifies filing, but each country:
- has its own trademark laws
- conducts independent examination
- can approve or object individually
So results may vary across jurisdictions.
Costs Involved in Madrid Protocol Filing
The cost depends on:
- number of countries
- number of classes
- type of mark (word or logo)
Total cost generally includes:
- Indian trademark filing fee
- WIPO fee (basic fee + individual country fee)
- professional or attorney charges if hired
Difference Between Madrid Protocol and Country-Wise Filing
Madrid Protocol is better when:
- multiple countries are required
- long-term global expansion is planned
- centralized management preferred
Countrywise filing may be better when:
- only one or two countries needed
- legal complexity exists in target country
- highly customized application required
Many companies use a hybrid approach.
Documents Required for Madrid Protocol Filing
Generally required documents include:
- Indian trademark registration or application number
- applicant name and address
- representation of mark
- list of countries designated
- class of goods or services
- power of attorney in some cases
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- weak base trademark in India
- generic brand names
- selecting too many countries without purpose
- inconsistent brand logo versions
- wrong class selection
Well-planned strategy increases success chances.
Should Your Business Use Madrid Protocol Trademark?
Madrid Protocol is highly suitable for:
- exporters
- global D2C brands
- mobile app companies
- SaaS and IT firms
- franchise chains
- manufacturing brands expanding overseas
It may not be necessary if you operate only within India.
Final Insight — BusinessZindagi Opinion
For Indian entrepreneurs planning global presence, the Madrid Protocol trademark system is one of the smartest tools to secure international brand identity.
It offers:
- simplicity
- cost-efficiency
- legal strength
- administrative convenience
But expert guidance is recommended when:
- objections arise
- brand similarity issues exist
- high-risk markets are targeted
Right strategy + early filing = stronger international brand protection.
FAQs — Madrid Protocol Trademark
What is Madrid Protocol in trademark registration?
It is an international system allowing trademark protection in multiple countries with a single application.
Can an Indian trademark owner apply through Madrid Protocol?
Yes. A registered or pending Indian trademark application is required as the base.
How many countries are covered under Madrid Protocol?
More than 130 member countries.
Do all countries automatically approve my trademark?
No. Each country examines and decides independently.
Is Madrid Protocol cheaper than filing separately in each country?
In most cases yes, especially when multiple countries are selected.
Can I add new countries later?
Yes, additional countries can be added after initial registration.
Is Madrid Protocol useful for startups?
Yes, especially for exporters, SaaS startups, D2C brands and international e-commerce sellers.
Disclaimer including AI Disclaimer
This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Trademark rules, international treaties, policies and procedures may change over time and may vary based on country-specific regulations and individual legal situations.
Parts of this article may have been generated or assisted using AI tools and later reviewed and refined by the BusinessZindagi editorial team. AI-assisted content may not always fully reflect the most recent legal developments or jurisdiction-specific rules.
This article does not constitute legal or professional advice. Readers are advised to consult a qualified trademark attorney or IP professional before taking action regarding international or Madrid Protocol trademark filing.
BusinessZindagi.com and the author are not responsible for any decisions made based on this content.
Authentic Sources and Reference Links
WIPO Madrid System Official Portal
https://www.wipo.int/madrid/en/
IP India Trademark Portal
https://ipindia.gov.in
Madrid Member Countries List
https://www.wipo.int/madrid/en/members/
Indian Trade Marks Act, 1999
https://legislative.gov.in
WIPO Guide on International Trademark Registration
https://www.wipo.int/madrid/en/guide/
If you’d like, I can also:
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