The Monegasque authorities have initiated opposition proceedings against trademark applications filed by a Hong Kong company that has recently launched Monaco Visa payment cards.
Monaco Brands said on Monday, December 4, that “Monaco” is a protected name worldwide, and no authorisation has been given by the Principality for the use of the name.
Monaco Brands’ mission is to protect, enhance and defend the entire global portfolio of the brands Monaco and Monte-Carlo, both associated with the Principality.
The company behind the card is Foris Limited, which also makes use of the name Monaco Technology GMBH, a Swiss company.
Foris Limited is a very recent Hong Kong entity, registered on June 30, 2016.
In addition, Monaco Brands points out that these two companies do not carry out any activity in Monaco. The launch of this payment card infringes the Principality’s rights and every measure will be taken to protect the trademark.