India is proposing to replace the rules that currently govern trademark procedures to simplify and expedite trademark filing, according to the World Trademark Review.

The draft measures also propose a hefty hike in fees – with a 100 percent rise in registration costs, change of information and renewal. However, given India’s fees are currently low by international standards, the proposal is unlikely to affect large foreign corporations.

The proposal also includes a provision allowing major corporations to seek a declaration from the Trademark Office that a brand name is well known, circumventing the current lengthy procedure that requires companies to apply via the courts or Intellectual Property Appellate Board. The well-known status gives rights-holders extra ammunition in the fight to protect their IP rights.