Monaco Trademark Information

Monaco or Monte Carlo, officially the Principality of Monaco, is a small sovereign city-state located in South Western Europe on the northern central coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It is surrounded on three sides by its neighbour, France, and its centre is about 16 km (9.9 mi) from Italy. The population is estimated at 30586 with a GDP of $4.888 billion.

The Genoese built a fortress on the site of present day Monaco in 1215. The current ruling Grimaldi family first seized temporary control in 1297, and again in 1331, but were not able to permanently secure their holding until 1419. Economic development was spurred in the late 19th century with a railroad linkup to France and the opening of a casino. Since then, the principality's mild climate, splendid scenery, and gambling facilities have made Monaco world famous as a tourist and recreation center.

Trademarks are assigned through the Intellectual Property Division, Directorate of Economic Expansion, Department of Finance and Economy. Monaco is a member of the Madrid Protocol. A trademark is valid for 10 years and may be renewed for further periods of 10 years each.