News

DEALING WITH COPYRIGHT TROLL: TIPS FOR E-COMMERCE SELLER

Copyright trolls are a persistent problem for E-Commerce sellers who are just starting to establish their online presence. This article, we will discuss how E-Commerce sellers can protect themselves from copyright trolls.

A VISIT AND MEETING WITH HONGDA BUSINESS SERVICES IN SHENZHEN, CHINA

On May 10, 2023, Mr. Tommy Nguyen, Attorney at Law, Managing Partner of REFINY LAW FIRM visited and met with Ms. Angel Ho, the CEO of Shenzhen Hongda Service Ltd., the branch of HONGDA BUSINESS SERVICES in Shenzhen, China.

WORKSHOP ON INTRODUCTION OF POLICIES OF HAI AN AND SHENZHEN INDUSTRIAL PARK FOR ENCOURAGING THE FOREIGN INVESTORS

On May 10, 2023, in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, the Committee of Hai An and the city leaders organized Hai An High-Quality Development Workshop. After the workshop, REFINY and HONGDA joined a separate meeting with Mr. Zhang Yinglai with the aim to support the investment to Hai An.

PATENT TROLL - HOW TO DEAL WITH IT?

Patent trolls are a major problem for small E-commerce sellers, and it is important to know how to deal with them. These are people or companies who misuse patents as a business strategy, often by obtaining patents being sold at auctions by bankrupt companies or by doing just enough research to prove that they had the idea first. This article provides five tips for handling patent trolls.

TRADEMARK TROLL – HOW TO DEAL WITH IT?

A trademark troll is a situation where companies or individuals register trademarks without the intention of using them for business purposes. Trademark trolls are an issue that all brand owners should be aware of when conducting business, especially if they have ambitions beyond national borders. The following article will delve into ways in which E-Commerce sellers can safeguard themselves against trademark trolls.

REFINY VISITED AND WORKED WITH THE CHINA ITALY ECOLOGY PARK MANAGEMENT BOARD IN ZHEJIANG, CHINA

On May 15, 2023, Attorney Tommy Nguyen, the managing partner of REFINY LAW FIRM, visited and worked with the China Italy Ecology Park management board in Zhejiang, China. By that time, the parties discussed the strengths of the industrial park, including its facilities, convenient location, and transportation networks. After the meeting with the management board of the China Italy Ecology Park, Refiny believes that with such policies Zhejiang, China will become an attractive investment destination for foreign investors.

REFINY ATTENDED THE CROSS-BORDER E-COMMERCE CONFERENCE: "ASIAN ELITE, GLOBAL BREAKTHROUGH"

REFINY attended the Cross-Border E-Commerce Conference, themed "Asian Elite, Global Breakthrough", jointly organized by Amazon Global Selling and Vietnam E-commerce and Digital Economy Agency (iDEA), took place on June 7 in Hanoi to meet and discuss with businesses and service providers. Through the conference, REFINY believes that the support from Amazon Global Selling and iDEA will help Vietnamese businesses develop even more strongly in the field of international business. REFINY looks forward to assisting merchants and businesses in solving legal problems, continuing to connect with service providers in the industry, learning the aspects businesses need support in, and helping them succeed in reaching global customers.

REFINY JOINED LAWORLD, STRENGTHENING GLOBAL LEGAL NETWORK

On July 1, 2023, REFINY, an international law firm specializing in e-commerce, foreign trade, corporate law, and intellectual property law, officially joined LAWorld - a non-exclusive international legal network comprising 57 independent mid-sized law firms. LAWorld is renowned for its extensive network, covering most of the major commercial centers worldwide and more than 1,350 lawyers across 100 cities. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both organizations and highlights their commitment to providing clients with seamless access to quality legal advice on a global scale.

AN OVERVIEW OF HONG KONG BUSINESS TAX

Discover the allure of Hong Kong as a global financial hub and a prime business destination with its attractive low-tax policy, favorable business environment, and straightforward tax regulations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Hong Kong's business tax system, including business tax rates, tax reporting requirements, and tax exemptions.

SALES TAX IN THE US FOR SELLER

This article provides an overview of the sales tax system in the United States, emphasizing its state-level administration and variations across different regions. The article details the obligations of sellers in adhering to sales tax regulations, including criteria for collection, exemptions, and complexities surrounding dropshipping. The role of Shopify in aiding sellers to manage tax liabilities is discussed, highlighting the importance of accurate compliance for successful business operations.

CORPORATE INCOME TAX RATE, REBATES & TAX EXEMPTION SCHEMES IN SINGAPORE

Singapore, known for its robust business ecosystem, strategic location, and progressive economic policies, continues to attract enterprises from around the world. One of the key factors contributing to this appeal is its corporate income tax framework, which includes competitive tax rates, various rebates, and attractive tax exemption schemes. This article delves into the nuances of Singapore's corporate tax system, highlighting how it encourages business growth and innovation.

US – POSSIBLE GROUNDS FOR REFUSAL OF A TRADEMARK: ENSURING YOUR BRAND'S UNIQUENESS AND CLARITY

When it comes to registering a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), it's not a straightforward journey. While trademarks are powerful tools for establishing brand identity and consumer recognition, not all proposed marks are granted registration. The USPTO employs a rigorous examination process to ensure that trademarks meet specific criteria, promoting fair competition and safeguarding consumer interests. Let's explore some of the most common grounds for refusal that trademark applicants may encounter.

COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT: RESOLUTION PROCESS AND LEGAL INSIGHTS

In today's digital age, where information and creative works are shared with unprecedented ease, the issue of copyright infringement has become a focal point of concern for creators, businesses, and individuals alike. Copyright infringement is a complex legal matter that involves the unauthorized use of copyrighted material. It raises questions about ownership, rights, and the proper use of creative works. In this article, we will explore the concept of copyright infringement, the process of detecting and addressing it, and the legal distinctions between willful and non-willful infringement.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND COPYRIGHT: BALANCING CREATIVITY AND OWNERSHIP

In an era where technology continues to advance at an unprecedented rate, the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and copyright law is becoming increasingly complex and intriguing. The intersection of AI and creativity raises fundamental questions about the very essence of copyright, challenging established norms and practices. This article delves into the evolving landscape of AI-generated content and copyright, drawing insights and exploring related legal developments.

PROTECTING INNOVATION: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ENFORCEMENT

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, protecting intellectual property (IP) is critical for companies looking to maintain a competitive edge and secure their innovative creations. Intellectual property encompasses a range of intangible assets, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets, each offering unique protection for various forms of innovation. Effective IP enforcement is vital to safeguard these assets and ensure that unauthorized use or infringement is appropriately addressed within the legal framework.

DMCA COMPLIANCE FOR E-COMMERCE SELLERS: SAFEGUARDING YOUR DIGITAL ASSETS

In the dynamic landscape of e-commerce, safeguarding intellectual property and complying with copyright laws are critical aspects that sellers must prioritize. The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) stands as a foundational pillar in this endeavor, offering a comprehensive framework for copyright compliance in the digital realm. This article aims to provide e-commerce sellers with an introductory understanding of DMCA compliance, its impact on their business, and how to effectively handle DMCA notices.

DEEPENING LEGAL PARTNERSHIPS: EXPLORING INVESTMENT REGULATIONS AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY IN CHINA WITH HONGDA BUSINESS SERVICES

On September 25, 2023, Mr. Tommy Nguyen, Managing Partner of REFINY LAW FIRM, visited Shenzhen, China, to bolster international legal collaboration and broaden knowledge horizons. Hosted by Ms. Angel Ho, Managing Director of SHENZHEN HONGDA SERVICE LTD., a branch of HONGDA BUSINESS SERVICES, the visit was centered on strengthening cooperation with Hongda Business Services. The primary objectives were engaging in substantive dialogues concerning investment regulations in China, investigating markets of interest to Chinese investors such as Turkey and Russia, and augmenting measures for intellectual property protection for Vietnamese investors.

REFINY PARTICIPATES IN THE CONFERENCE ON GUIDING THE ENFORCEMENT OF NEW INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW PROVISIONS AND THEIR IMPACT ON BUSINESSES

On October 10, 2023, the Intellectual Property Office, in collaboration with the Vietnam Intellectual Property Association (VIPA) and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), organized a conference to provide guidance on the implementation of the new intellectual property law provisions and their impact on businesses. REFINY would like to highlight some key new points related to trademark matters in this article.

ATTORNEY DAVID S. ROBINSON (MAYNARD NEXSEN PC) VISITED REFINY, OPENING POTENTIAL COOPERATION OPPORTUNITIES

Within the framework of international legal collaboration, Attorney David S. Robinson, a Shareholder at Maynard Nexsen - an esteemed law firm based in the US and a member of LAWorld - visited REFINY Law Firm in Vietnam. The meeting between two LAWorld members from different areas to explore various legal aspects related to commercial, intellectual property, and investment in both Vietnam and the United States.

"VIXI" TEA HONORED AS ONE OF THE FIVE TYPICAL VIETNAMESE BRANDS ON THE AMAZON.COM PLATFORM

On October 17, 2023, the Vietnamese tea brand "ViXi" was honored to be selected by Amazon Global Selling Vietnam to represent 1 of 5 typical sellers in the Vietnamese market to attend a roundtable meeting with Senior leaders of Amazon US. REFINY - as a legal consultant for "ViXi" since the early days of the brand expanding its business on the Amazon.com platform - and the Director of "ViXi" has participated in this roundtable meeting.

HOW TO AVOID INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY INFRINGEMENT DURING PEAK SALES SEASON ON E-COMMERCE PLATFORMS

The world of e-commerce is a thriving marketplace that continues to grow, particularly during peak sales seasons. As businesses rush to meet customer demand, it's essential to remember that intellectual property (IP) infringement is a serious concern. Avoiding these infringements is crucial for maintaining the reputation and legal standing of your brand. In this article, we will explore the common mistakes that can lead to IP infringement and offer practical tips to avoid such infringements when doing business on e-commerce platforms during peak sales seasons.

NATIONAL E-COMMERCE WEEK AND VIETNAM ONLINE SHOPPING DAY - ONLINE FRIDAY 2023: TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF VIETNAM E-COMMERCE

On November 16, 2023, in Hanoi, the Ministry of Industry and Trade (Department of E-commerce and Digital Economy) organized a press conference to introduce and provide official information about the National E-commerce Week and Online Friday 2023 program to government agencies, organizations, businesses, and consumers, as well as media outlets nationwide.

STRENGTHENING GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS: MR. BEOM JOON KIM'S WORKING VISIT TO REFINY OFFICE

In a significant stride towards global collaboration in the realm of intellectual property (IP), Mr. Beom Joon KIM, a Patent & Trademark Attorney, and the President of SJ PARTNERS Int'l Patent Law Firm, paid a working visit to the REFINY office on November 24, 2023. This meeting aimed to explore potential collaboration opportunities and address crucial issues related to Intellectual Property (IP) in the Vietnamese territory.

REFINY ATTENDED THE CONFERENCE ON SUSTAINABLE E-COMMERCE DEVELOPMENT

Hanoi, December 01, 2023 - Within the framework of the National E-Commerce Week and the 10th Online Friday Shopping Day, the E-Commerce Development Conference was held in Hanoi with a crucial theme: "Sustainable E-Commerce Development - Enhancing Consumer Protection in Online Transactions". This event marks a significant milestone in the formation and development of e-commerce (E-commerce) in Vietnam.

PUBLIC DOMAIN: EXPLORING FREE RESOURCES

In the era of Industry 4.0 and advancing AI, the issue of intellectual property protection, particularly copyright, has become a focal point. Notably, the concept of "public domain" becomes even more significant as individual creativity intersects with collective knowledge. As an intellectual property law firm, REFINY aims to provide insights into copyright in general and the public domain specifically. This article delves into the fundamental principles of copyright, the duration of copyright protection, and, most importantly, the diversity of content within the public domain.

A MILESTONE IN COLLABORATION: REFINY WELCOMES TEDDY STRATFORD APPAREL FOUNDER, MR. BRYAN DAVIS

On January 18, REFINY LAW FIRM marked a significant occasion as it welcomed Mr. Bryan Davis, the esteemed founder of Teddy Stratford Apparel, as a client in the United States. The meeting unfolded at REFINY's office and set the stage for a promising partnership between the two entities.

REFINY'S PARTICIPATION IN THE ANNUAL IP & INNOVATION RESEARCHERS ASIA CONFERENCE (IPIRA)

REFINY Law Firm participated in the 6th Annual IP & Innovation Researchers Asia Conference (IPIRA), a prestigious international event organized by the Network of Intellectual Property and Innovation Researchers in the Asian region. Co-organized with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), this conference serves as a vital platform for fostering discussions on intellectual property, innovation, and their impact on global economies.

STRONG TRADEMARK: BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE BRAND IDENTITY

In an era of competition and rapid technological development, the significance of brand identity cannot be overstated in building a sustainable brand. At the heart of this identity lies the trademark—a symbol that not only distinguishes products and services but also embodies the core values of the business. In this article, we focus on strong trademarks, weak trademarks and the profound impact they wield on brand equity.

UNDERSTANDING THE CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY ACT: A GUIDE FOR US COMPANIES

In the wake of increasingly sophisticated financial crimes and the imperative for greater transparency, the United States government took a significant step forward with the enactment of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) as part of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021. This legislation aims to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and the misuse of shell companies by mandating greater disclosure of beneficial ownership information (BOI) by corporations and other entities. This article offers a comprehensive overview of the essential aspects that U.S. companies need to know about this landmark law.

TRADE SECRETS IN THE GIG ECONOMY: STRATEGIES FOR SAFEGUARDING INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY IN A FLEXIBLE WORKFORCE

In today's business world, the gig economy has become an integral part of the global workforce structure. However, with the flexibility and fragmentation of the labor force, protecting trade secrets in this environment poses many challenges. In this article, we will explore the opportunities and challenges of the gig economy, along with specific strategies to safeguard intellectual property in a flexible workforce.