Based in Bengaluru, Acko General Insurance has sought help from the Indian government due to a potential trademark infringement issue in China.
The insurer, supported by Amazon, has lodged complaints with Chinese authorities after discovering that Shenzhen MengLang Technology applied for the Acko trademark in China, aiming to use it within the insurance and financial services sectors, according to a report by Mint, which cited sources familiar with the situation.
Although the initial objection was dismissed, it is still unclear if Shenzhen MengLang’s trademark application has been granted. In reaction, Acko General Insurance has approached the Union corporate affairs ministry, clarifying that it has no ties with the Chinese company and has asked for governmental intervention.
Acko General Insurance has expressed a strong desire to distance itself from any associations with countries outside of India. The company has communicated to the government its commitment to protecting its trademark, emphasizing the significant investment in time, resources, and effort this has required.
In China, Acko’s trademark application was rejected based on the country’s policy of awarding trademarks to the first filer, without regard to international recognition. This policy differs from that of other countries, which often recognize and protect internationally known trademarks.
Acko Technologies, the parent company of Acko General Insurance, has held the Acko trademark in India since December 2017.
This issue emerges at a time when several Indian startups and technology companies are facing challenges related to copyright and trademark disputes.
