In East Coast Podiatry Centre Pte Ltd v Family Podiatry Centre Pte Ltd [2025] 1 SLR 914, the High Court rejected trademark infringement claims against a competitor’s use of “east coast podiatry” as Google advertisement keywords. On appeal, the Court of Appeal upheld the dismissal on different grounds and rejected the application of European precedent Google France in Singapore’s context.
New Nice Classification version: WIPO’s next edition is rolling out in 2026. Singapore aligns its practice with Nice; classification wording which can impact how you describe goods/services for smooth examination. The 13th Edition will apply to all new trade mark filings and processing from 1 January 2026.
There will be no changes to the classification of existing applications/registrations and their scope of protection before the effective date. Brand owners should review their portfolios to assess if their existing coverage will adequately protect their interests and consider filing new applications and adjusting watching strategies, if appropriate.
As Singapore celebrates its 60th birthday as a nation, hslegal LLP is proud to have worked with creatives on their IP protection for the SG60 giant red balls across the country. We are so proud to work with the designers and be part of something special for National Day! Projects like these keeps us motivated and we are proud to work with local businesses and creatives in this little red dot we call home! Read More


