From October 7 to 11, 2024, the 22nd session of the Working Group on the Legal Development of the Madrid System of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) was successfully held in Geneva, Switzerland. This meeting attracted representatives from over 100 countries and organizations worldwide, who actively participated in discussions both in person and online. The participants explored various topics, including proposals put forward by delegations, issues regarding trademark dependency, and the introduction of new working languages. Additionally, a roundtable session was held during the meeting, where representatives from WIPO's International Bureau gave a detailed presentation on the latest developments in the Madrid System, the recent improvements to the eMadrid system, updates in operations, and the development of the new Madrid Information Technology Platform.

Mr. Ming Zhu, Head of Trademark Practice in China at Chang Tsi & Partners, participated in the meeting online as a representative of the Madrid Working Committee of the China Trademark Association, acting as an observer for China. Mr. Zhu worked closely with representatives from the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) who attended the meeting in person, particularly on two key issues: trademark dependency and the introduction of Chinese as a new working language for the Madrid System. In advocating for the inclusion of Chinese as a working language, Mr. Zhu emphasized, "The Madrid Working Committee of the China Trademark Association has conducted extensive research and identified dependency principles and language issues as two prominent concerns, with the language issue being of particular interest to Chinese applicants. As early as 2018, the Chinese delegation submitted a proposal to the International Bureau, being one of the first members to do so at this meeting. We understand the International Bureau's cautious approach in adding new working languages, and we are also willing to explore solutions to the language issue. We are prepared to serve as a pilot member for the addition of working languages to test the positive impact of this change on the Madrid System."

The Chinese delegation actively voiced its opinions during the meeting, aiming to address the challenges and concerns Chinese applicants face when using the Madrid System, while also offering suggestions for improvement. Chang Tsi & Partners will continue to participate in key meetings domestically and internationally, advocating for clients and protecting their legitimate rights.