Is there any restrictions on filing a trademark application for an unused mark?
Yes, there are some restrictions regarding the filing of application for an unused mark. In Japan, the applicant must provide proof of use or intent to use the mark with respect to all the goods/services indicated in the class if the number of similar group codes for the designated goods/services in one class exceeds seven.
In case of failure to submit such documents, the applicant must file amendments to reduce number of similar group codes for the designated goods/services in the class to seven or less. This rule has been in force in Japan since April 1, 2007.
Trademark Registration Office in Japan
Patent Attorney：Hiroshi Oogai
Address：304 BUREX Hirakawacho 1-5-15, Hirakawa-cho,
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Phone：＋81-3-4570-0792
Mail：contact @ trademark-registration-japan.com
