Application success rate at Singapore’s IPOS
Trademark applications in Singapore are managed by the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS).
Between 2019 and 2023, Singapore consistently demonstrated strong performance in trademark registrations, achieving an average success rate of 88.94%.
It ranks among the top jurisdictions globally for trademark registration success. It outperforms many major IP offices, including the United States (56.91%), United Kingdom (86.22%), and Canada (50.76%).
Regionally, Singapore also ranks ahead of most Asian countries, such as Japan (78.78%), South Korea (63.20%), and India (60.41%).
Country | Office code | Success rate |
|---|---|---|
Singapore | IPOS | 88.94% |
Japan | JPO | 78.78% |
South Korea | KIPO | 63.20% |
The United States | USPTO | 56.91% |
The United Kngdom | UKIPO | 86.22% |
Find out more about how this trademark office compares globally in our full report on trademark success rates worldwide.
Key factors behind Singapore’s strong performance
1. Transparent and predictable processes
IPOS operates with a clear, rule-based framework, guided by international treaties such as the Madrid Protocol. This helps applicants understand what to expect and reduces surprises during examination.
2. Fair and balanced examination standards
IPOS conducts substantive examinations that assess the distinctiveness and legality of marks while maintaining an applicant-friendly posture. The office’s decisions strike a balance between legal rigor and practical flexibility.
3. Efficient case management
Singapore’s steady application volumes, combined with modern digital systems and trained examiners, have helped keep the trademark registration process streamlined and efficient.
How to maximize your chances of registration success in Singapore
Given the relatively low average success rate of 89%, registering a trademark in Singapore requires some preparation and understanding of the procedures. To improve your likelihood of approval, it’s recommended to begin with a comprehensive trademark search to identify any potential conflicts. Ensure that your mark is distinctive and not merely descriptive, and clearly define the goods and services associated with your application.
Partnering with a trademark attorney familiar with the legal landscape can significantly improve your chances. They can help anticipate objections, prepare your application thoroughly, and represent you throughout the process if issues arise.
If you are currently preparing to submit your first trademark application, we’ve put together a detailed guide on how to strengthen your chances of success, with multiple pieces of advice directly from our trademark lawyers with years of experience. You can also take advantage of Trama’s free lawyer’s check to receive expert feedback on your trademark and guidance on the best steps forward.
