TrademarksUSA
Disney Enterprises and Lucasfilm sue Kissimmee-based businesses for selling unlicensed merchandise featuring Mickey Mouse and other characters across multiple online platforms
Disney Enterprises and Lucasfilm LTD. have filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida against two Kissimmee-based companies, The Secret Disney Group and Popsella Marketplace, alleging trademark and copyright infringement. The defendants, managed by Christopher and Hannah Martin, are…
Friday, May 15, 2026
IIPLA News Desk
EnforcementUSA
Recordation with U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers a cost-effective enforcement mechanism against infringing imports
Trademark and copyright owners registered in the United States can leverage recordation with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to prevent the importation of counterfeit and infringing goods. This enforcement tool, which includes a streamlined application process and modest fees, enables CBP officers to detain s…
Friday, May 15, 2026
IIPLA News Desk
AI & IPMiddle East
Composer Amr Mostafa’s AI rendition of iconic singer’s voice sparks debate on intellectual property and AI ethics in Egyptian music industry
Egyptian composer Amr Mostafa ignited a legal and ethical debate after releasing an AI-generated audio clip featuring the voice of legendary singer Umm Kulthum. The use of AI to recreate Kulthum’s voice without authorization from rights holders prompted criticism from her family and rights owners, highlighting challen…
Friday, May 15, 2026
IIPLA News Desk
PolicyGlobal
Vietnam affirms commitment to IP enforcement and invites dialogue with international partners following US Special 301 Report concerns
Vietnam’s Foreign Ministry has expressed readiness to clarify its intellectual property policies with the United States and other international partners. The ministry highlighted ongoing legal reforms, enforcement efforts, and cooperation with technology platforms to combat IP infringement, responding to issues raised…
Friday, May 15, 2026
IIPLA News Desk
PolicyGlobal
White House and Congress Highlight Industrial-Scale Chinese Efforts to Steal AI Innovations and Smuggle Critical Chips, Prompting Legislative Action
Chinese Communist Party-backed entities are conducting large-scale intellectual property theft focused on artificial intelligence and advanced microchips, posing significant risks to US economic and national security. Recent investigations reveal sophisticated methods including proxy accounts, distillation attacks, an…
Friday, May 15, 2026
IIPLA News Desk
CopyrightGlobal
Tokyo-based Avex Inc. reports highest post-pandemic sales and a strong return to profitability, driven by live entertainment, anime, and strategic music rights investments
Avex Inc. announced robust financial results for fiscal year 2025, with net sales reaching approximately $971 million and operating profit rebounding to $27 million. The company is advancing its global music rights and intellectual property strategy through acquisitions, partnerships, and expanded publishing operation…
Friday, May 15, 2026
IIPLA News Desk
TrademarksUSA
Sale of Preakness and Black Eyed Susan Stakes IP to Churchill Downs Raises Questions About State’s Financial Commitments and Control
Churchill Downs Incorporated’s April 2026 agreement to acquire the intellectual property rights to Maryland’s Preakness and Black Eyed Susan Stakes from 1/ST Maryland LLC, controlled by the Stronach family, has sparked debate over the state’s substantial investments exceeding $500 million in horse racing infrastructur…
Friday, May 15, 2026
IIPLA News Desk
LitigationGlobal
Lex Machina report reveals rising litigation targeting major retailers for fabric and pattern copyright violations, with strategic advice for defense and prevention
A recent Lex Machina analysis highlights a surge in copyright infringement lawsuits against retailers involving textile patterns. Major defendants include Ross Stores, TJX, Amazon, and Burlington Coat Factory, with plaintiffs like L.A. Printex and Star Fabrics increasing filings. While damages awarded are rare, settle…
Friday, May 15, 2026
IIPLA News Desk
