How can domestic travel companies maintain credibility and protect their brands in Vietnam?
In a dynamic and highly competitive market like domestic tourism, a brand is not just a name but also a valuable intangible asset of every business. As consumer trends increasingly emphasize differentiation and credibility, registering a trademark for domestic travel companies has become more essential than ever. This is not merely a legal procedure but also a sustainable development strategy, contributing to protecting the reputation, image, and services that businesses have painstakingly built.
This article will provide fundamental knowledge about the trademark registration process, specific considerations for the tourism industry, and practical advice to help businesses choose effective and cost-saving protection strategies.
Why should domestic travel companies register their trademarks as early as possible?
In reality, many travel companies have fallen into a passive position because they did not register their trademarks in time, only to find that competitors had already registered them first. The consequence is losing the brand name, being forced to change it, or spending time and money on complaints and lawsuits.
The tourism industry is unique in that its services are intangible—customers choose mostly based on trust in the brand. A familiar, easy-to-remember, and appealing name is a big advantage for capturing the market. However, without a protection certificate, the company can completely be “robbed” of its brand with just a few simple registration steps by another party.
Registering a trademark is a proactive step to:
Protect the name, logo, slogan, and brand identity.
Prevent counterfeiting, copying, or confusion with competitors.
Gain advantages when expanding branches or franchising.
Serve as an asset that can be valued, transferred, or contributed as capital.
Fulfill mandatory conditions for promotion via e-commerce platforms, OTAs, and international channels.
Trademark registration process for domestic travel companies
Basic steps include:
Identify the service groups under the Nice Classification
Typically, travel companies register under Class 39 (transportation, tour booking, travel guidance), Class 43 (accommodation services), and possibly Class 35 (tourism promotion, travel agency).Conduct a prior trademark search
This helps avoid rejection if the name has already been registered or is confusingly similar.Prepare and submit the registration dossier
Including application form, trademark sample, goods/service list, power of attorney (if applicable), and fee receipts.Monitor and respond during examination
Applications go through formality examination, publication, and substantive examination.Obtain the certificate
If approved, the certificate is valid for 10 years and renewable indefinitely, granting exclusive rights.
Brand protection strategies beyond just name registration
Register both domain names and trademarks.
Protect logos, slogans, and promotional images.
Monitor and promptly handle infringements.
Work with specialized legal advisors.
Optimizing intellectual property for sustainable growth
A protected trademark can be:
Transferred for investment capital.
Franchised under a unified system.
Contributed as capital in joint ventures.
In a volatile business environment, trademark registration is not just a legal tool but a strategic step reflecting long-term vision.
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