On January 28, 2026, BIPLA's International & Foreign Practice Committee hosted a virtual event entitled “Navigating Japanese Patent & Trademark Law: Insights from Practitioners.” The event was organized in conjunction with the International Activities Center (the “IAC”) of the Japan Patent Attorneys Association. Yuichiro Suzuki opened the program with an informative overview of the IAC and its role within the Japan Patent Attorneys Association. Mr. Suzuki's remarks were followed by substantive presentations from Asako Yoneguichi of CP Japan and Kotaro Ito of Konishi & Nakamura.

Ms. Yoneguichi provided a comprehensive overview of the patent prosecution process before the Japan Patent Office, offering valuable practical insights. Mr. Ito then delivered a detailed comparison of the U.S. and Japanese trademark systems, highlighting key differences that practitioners should be aware of when advising clients with trademark interests in both jurisdictions.

The International & Foreign Practice Committee thanks the IAC, Mr. Suzuki, Ms. Yoneguichi and Mr. Ito for their presentations and for making this event possible.