28.10.2024
We refer to our mailshot earlier this year which discussed the protection of intellectual property rights and the prevention of infringing or counterfeit goods from crossing borders by filing Applications for Action (AFAs) with customs in the UK and EU.
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As a reminder, an AFA informs customs of intellectual property rights (including trade marks, patents, designs and copyright) owned by rights holders as well as other pertinent information that allows customs to identify and seize potential counterfeit and infringing goods.
With regard to EU AFAs, the Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2399 of 12 September 2024 is now in force and can be read here. As of 03 October 2024, all EU AFAs must be filed, maintained and managed electronically, where computerised systems are in place.
Therefore, rights holders can submit eAFAs to customs through the IP Enforcement Portal (IPEP) at IP Enforcement Portal - Observatory (europa.eu) which is the EU AFA e-filing and management portal for all EU Member States or through the online national systems in Germany, Italy or Spain. IPEP is connected to the central EU customs database, COPIS (Counterfeit and anti-Piracy Information System), where the AFA information is stored and exchanged with customs. Paper copies may only be filed where there is a temporary failure of COPIS or one of the online portals.
We are eagerly awaiting updates regarding the introduction of the digital signature.
Our Irish offices would be delighted to provide any advice in relation to this change and to assist in filing eAFAs on your behalf through IPEP. For any EU AFA enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Galway@keltie.com and Aisling.Murphy@keltie.com. For any UK AFA enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Eleni.Mezulanik@keltie.com and Amber.Waynik@keltie.com.
04.07.2025
Generative AI and CopyrightThe launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in November 2022 brought generative AI to the forefront, transforming how people work and create. Since then, models that can process and generate not only text but also images, audio, and video have gained momentum. However, these advancements raise significant copyright concerns: generative AI uses copyrighted materials for training and produces realistic, original content, thus challenging traditional concepts of authorship and originality.
27.08.2025
Leading the way in life sciences IP: Q&A with Laura KehoeKeltie is rated as ‘Outstanding’ in the 2025 WIPR UK Patents Rankings. This ranking recognises the top firms in UK patent law for their expertise, reputation and client service. This is a powerful endorsement of Keltie’s expertise in supporting innovation across a wide range of sectors, including life sciences, chemistry, software and engineering. Keltie’s team has long been known for its collaborative, commercially grounded approach to IP, and this ranking is a reflection of that continued success.
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