CHIVAS REGAL Has Been Recognized as a Well-Known Mark in Nepal

On January 26, 2025, the Department of Industry (“DOI”), which acts as the intellectual property office in Nepal, handed down a decision in favor of the opposition filed by Chivas Holdings IP Limited (“Chivas Holdings”), a company registered in Scotland recognizing its “CHIVAS REGAL” mark to be a well-known mark in Nepal.  The written text of the decision has been released recently.

Chivas Holdings registered the “CHIVAS REGAL 12YO 2009 (and logo)” and other related marks in class 33 in Nepal.  Golden Globe Liquors Pvt. Ltd (“Golden Globe”), a company incorporated in Nepal filed an application at the DOI seeking to register “JOLLY PRINCE (and logo)” mark in class 33.  Chivas Holdings opposed Golden Globe’s application, contending that the proposed “JOLLY PRINCE (and logo)” mark is deceptively similar to the “CHIVAS REGAL 12YO 2009 (and logo)” mark and is likely to cause confusion to the public.

Accepting Chivas Holdings’ claims and rejecting Golden Globe’s application for registration of “JOLLY PRINCE (and logo)” mark, the DOI made the following determination:

• The shape and design of “JOLLY PRINCE (and logo)” closely resemble the registered “CHIVAS REGAL 12YO 2009 (and logo)” mark owned by Chivas Holdings.
   
• The registration of “JOLLY PRINCE (and logo)” mark proposed by Golden Globe is prima facie likely to mislead consumers and may adversely affect the reputation and goodwill earned by Chivas Holdings.
   
• “CHIVAS REGAL” has been registered in Nepal since 2012 A.D., and due to the continuous and extensive use of the “CHIVAS REGAL” labels bearing the marks “CHIVAS REGAL” and other related marks, it is recognized globally as a well-known mark.
   
• Chivas Holdings holds the exclusive right over “CHIVAS REGAL” mark and other marks appearing on the “CHIVAS REGAL” label. 
   

Through the decision, the DOI has reaffirmed its established position that a well-known mark is entitled to protection, thereby safeguarding the rights of the lawful owner.

Chivas Holdings was represented by Pradhan & Associates at the DOI.