Recent trends showcase a clear intent by two of the world’s global powers to tackle corruption abroad. The United States, through the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), has dramatically increased its investigation and enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). In addition, in 2010 the United Kingdom acted aggressively to address an historical weakness in its anti-bribery laws by enacting the UK Bribery Act.

Patent owners who wish to seek protection in multiple countries are often faced with many questions, as each jurisdiction may have a unique set of requirements. To answer some of these questions and simplify the process, Managing Intellectual Property has published a series of Q&A guides that introduce the relevant procedures in several key jurisdictions.

Thailand is currently in the middle of a major transition in its regulation of the electronic communications industry, as it moves from its tradition of state-owned enterprises in the sector to a competitive landscape involving many different providers. To put this transition into context, the Thailand chapter of The International Comparative Legal Guide to Telecommunications Laws and Regulations 2012 provides a comprehensive overview of the Kingdom’s telecommunications laws and regulations, presented in a Q&A format.

Anyone with even a basic knowledge of intellectual property law knows that a trademark must enable consumers to distinguish the product of one enterprise from the products of other enterprises. To be registrable, the trademark must be distinctive and non-descriptive. A mark can be distinctive in two ways: (1) inherent distinctiveness; and (2) distinctiveness through use. In addition, the trademark must be something other than, and separate from, the goods themselves. This rule applies to the registration and protection of conventional trademarks, as well as configuration marks.

An increasing number of foreigners are finding investment in Thailand attractive, creating a positive impact on the Thai economy. Undoubtedly, one of the effects of increased foreign direct investment is a greater number of foreigners coming to Thailand for a variety of business-related purposes: conducting business, taking a position of employment, accompanying family members assigned to work in Thailand, and even attending business meetings and seminars.

Employment law can vary widely between different jurisdictions. To navigate through the differing requirements, Multilaw has published How to Hire and Fire in 96 Jurisdictions, a guide to global labor and employment law.The Vietnam chapter of the guide looks at key issues such as:

Published by Multilaw, How to Hire and Fire in 96 Jurisdictions is a guide providing a quick overview of the rules and regulations governing employment relationships around the world. It is aimed at directors, in-house counsel, and senior HR staff in businesses operating in the global marketplace to help them gain a general overview of the employment legal framework worldwide.

Trademarks, tax, and termination are the terms in a franchise agreement most likely to cause trouble for a franchisor in Asia. In Thailand, many of the world’s most successful franchise models have established themselves to cater to the sophisticated Thai consumer. Well-known examples include Zara and Gap (for clothing and accessories); KFC, Pizza Hut, and Krispy Kreme (food); Ikea (home accessories); and 7-Eleven and Family Mart (convenience stores).