Introduction of Consent System (Trademark Law)

Under the Japanese Trademark Law, it is prescribed that a trademark will not be granted if an application for trademark registration is identical with or similar to another person’s registered trademark (prior trademark registration), or used in connection with the designated goods/services relating to that registered trademark or goods/services similar thereto (Article 4 (1) (xi) of the Japanese Trademark Law).
With the introduction of the consent system, even if a trademark falls under Article 4 (1) (xi) of the Japanese Trademark Law, registration is allowed if written consent of the owner of the prior trademark registration has been obtained and there is no likelihood of confusion with the goods/services of the owner of the prior trademark registration (Article 4 (4) of the Japanese Trademark Law).
For more details, please refer to　Japan Patent Office　website.