Mexico's New IP Regulations Take Effect 22 July 2026 — Five Key Points from the Official Gazette

Release Time：2026-07-22 09:59Author：Views：0

The new Regulations to the Federal Law for the Protection of Industrial Property were published in Mexico's official gazette (Diario Oficial de la Federación, DOF) on 28 April 2026, signed by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo in Mexico City on 27 April 2026. They enter into force on 22 July 2026 (60 business days after publication), repealing the 1994 Regulations in force since 23 November 1994.

Below are five key changes drawn directly from the DOF text:

1. Full e-filing & electronic certification (Art. 36) Electronic certified copies carry the same probative value as handwritten signatures. Notifications can be served electronically; the Gaceta is published through electronic channels.

2. Online infringement declarations (Cap. V, Arts. 160–162) Administrative infringement declarations can be filed physically, virtually or electronically via IMPI's platform or digital account. Applicants must identify the alleged infringer's location — which may be a physical address, virtual address, electronic platform, profile or digital account.

3. Non-traditional trademark rules refined (Art. 84) Sound, colour, position, motion and multimedia marks must include a clear, concise, symbolic or technical representation. IMPI may request supporting material in physical or electronic form.

4. Cultural-element marks need community assembly authorisation (Art. 85) Marks involving Indigenous or community cultural elements must attach the original authorisation certificate from the relevant community general assembly.

5. Patent tightening (Arts. 60 & 63) Inventions based on genetic resources or traditional knowledge must disclose their source (Art. 60). Provisional applications require a fee; applicants get one written notice with a 5-day payment deadline before abandonment (Art. 63).

Transition

Pending matters follow the framework in force at filing (Transitorio Tercero).

Sources: Diario Oficial de la Federación, Mexico, 28 April 2026

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