We wish to inform ECTA members that the 2026 edition of the Guidelines for Examination of EU trade marks (EUTMs) and registered EU designs (EUDs) enter into force today, on 1 July 2026, following adoption by the EUIPO Executive Director (Decision No EX-26-09) and after stakeholder consultation to which ECTA actively participated through its relevant Committees.

The revised Guidelines include significant updates such as:

• implementation of the second (and final) stage of the EU design reform, including representation requirements for animated and dynamic EU designs;
• comprehensive review of Office’s practice in relation to geographical indications (GIs), particularly in light of the legislative reform related to GIs for craft and industrial products and General Court’s judgment T‑239/23, NERO CHAMPAGNE / Champagne;
• changes to Office practice related to deadline extensions and suspensions in opposition proceedings.

For a broader summary of changes, please refer to the official EUIPO news here.