In 2023, despite a global decline in international trademark applications, fashion and beauty companies like L’Oréal, which filed 199 applications, and Shiseido, with 103 applications, saw increases. Luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton Malletier and Rolex SA also registered more filings. However, brands like Guerlain and Prada S.A experienced declines. The World Intellectual Property Organization reported a 7% drop in overall applications, attributing the decrease to the adverse environment for innovation. The U.S. led in filings, followed by Germany and China.

Leading fashion and beauty companies, spearheaded by L’Oréal, defied the global decline in international trademark applications in 2023, with L’Oréal filing 199 applications, up from 170 the previous year. Shiseido and other luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Rolex, Cartier, and Burberry also saw increases in filings. However, companies such as Guerlain, LVMH Fragrance Brands, and Prada experienced declines. Overall, international trademark applications fell by 7 percent to 64,200. WIPO's chief economist, Carsten Fink, attributed the decline to an adverse environment for innovation and entrepreneurial activity but expressed optimism for future recovery.

Leading fashion and beauty companies, spearheaded by L’Oréal, defied the global decline in international trademark applications in 2023, posting gains to protect their brands in various markets. L’Oréal retained its top position with 199 applications, followed by Shiseido with 103. Other luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Rolex, Cartier, and Burberry also saw increases in filings. However, companies like Guerlain and Prada experienced declines. Overall, international trademark applications fell by 7 percent to 64,200. WIPO's chief economist attributed the decline to an adverse environment for innovation but anticipated a rebound as conditions improve.

L'Oréal maintained its position as the top filer of international trademark applications in 2022, with 160 filings, according to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Despite an overall decline in trademark applications by 6.1% to about 69,000, some brands like Shiseido, Abercrombie & Fitch Europe SA, and Richemont International SA saw increases. WIPO's chief economist, Carsten Fink, attributed the rise in filings by some luxury brands to strong consumer spending following the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions. U.S.-based firms filed the most applications, followed by Germany, China, France, and the U.K.

L’Oréal was the leading filer of international trademark applications in 2021 with 171 filings, regaining its top position from 2019. Other notable brands in the fashion and beauty sectors, such as Shiseido and Abercrombie & Fitch Europe SA, saw a decline in their filings. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) reported a 14.4 percent increase in overall international trademark applications across all sectors, with the U.S. leading the number of applications, followed by Germany, China, France, and the U.K. WIPO Director-General Daren Tang highlighted the resilience of human ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit despite pandemic disruptions.

A WHO report highlights serious deficiencies in COVID-19 health-care waste management, revealing substantial waste from PPE and diagnostic kits. The report calls for a holistic approach to manage environmental and climate impacts, noting that health care is a significant contributor to global emissions. Recommendations include eco-friendly materials, investment in non-burn waste treatment, and improved waste segregation, particularly in poorer nations. The report emphasizes the need for investment in waste management infrastructure and training for waste workers.

The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe announced a sustainability standard endorsed by 56 countries, including the U.S., to provide traceability and transparency for garments and footwear. The standard utilizes an open-source Ethereum blockchain system and DNA markers to track items from production to purchase. Over 250 experts, including those from Vivienne Westwood, contributed to the guidelines. The blockchain platform ensures data confidentiality and allows consumers and companies to verify sustainability claims. The UNECE-standard was successfully tested on cotton and leather, and it supports the adoption of circular economic approaches in the fashion industry. The initiative also introduces a sustainability pledge for governments and stakeholders to improve the sector's environmental and ethical standards.

In the latest annual rankings by the World Intellectual Property Organization, Shiseido climbed to third place with 130 trademark filings, a significant increase from 70 the previous year. In contrast, L’Oréal, previously the top filer, dropped to fifth place with 115 applications. The report highlighted that despite the COVID-19 pandemic, innovation remained resilient. Other notable companies with increased filings include Abercrombie & Fitch Europe SA, Giorgio Armani S.P.A., and Richemont International S.A. However, some brands like LVMH Fragrance Brands, Hermès International, and Chanel Sarl saw a decrease in filings. Overall, international trademark applications saw a slight contraction of 0.6 percent in 2020, the first since the 2008-09 financial crisis, attributed to the pandemic's impact on new goods and services.

Global foreign direct investment (FDI) plummeted to $859 billion in 2020 from $1.5 trillion in 2019 due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a United Nations report. The retail and apparel sector saw a significant decline in new FDI, with the U.S. and several European countries experiencing sharp drops. However, China saw a smaller decline and became the largest FDI recipient in 2020. The report predicts that FDI flows will remain weak in 2021 but expects a recovery to begin in 2022, influenced by factors such as the pandemic's progression, vaccination rollouts, and economic support measures.

The International Labour Organization reported significant job losses in the retail and wholesale sectors due to the COVID-19 crisis, with a disproportionate effect on women workers. The Americas region has been the hardest hit. The ILO revised its labor market damage estimates upwards, with workplace closures affecting one-third of global workers. The labor market recovery for the second half of 2020 is expected to be uncertain and incomplete, with a potential second wave of the pandemic possibly leading to even higher working-hour losses.

Global trade in textiles and apparel contracted by nearly 12 percent in the first quarter due to the coronavirus, surpassing the overall 5 percent decline in international trade in goods. China saw an 18 percent decline in textile exports but recovered with an 11 percent increase in April. U.S. textile and apparel exports fell 10 percent in Q1 and 62 percent in April. UNCTAD projects a 27 percent contraction in global trade for Q2 and a 20 percent decline for 2020. The WTO reported significant export revenue declines for Least Developed Countries, with Bangladesh experiencing an 83 percent drop in April 2020 compared to April 2019.

Over 436 million businesses globally face high risk of serious disruption due to the coronavirus pandemic, with the wholesale and retail sector being the most affected, expecting 232 million enterprises at risk, according to an ILO report. The manufacturing sector, accommodation and food services, and real estate and administrative business services are also significantly impacted. Global working hours in the second quarter are expected to be 10.5% lower, equivalent to 305 million full-time jobs. The ILO emphasizes the need for government policies to provide income support for businesses and workers, including temporary subsidies and concessional credit lines to support employment retention. The report highlights the vulnerability of the 1.6 billion workers in the informal economy, who face severe consequences from lockdown measures.

The International Labor Organization reported that nearly 25 million jobs could be lost globally due to the coronavirus pandemic, surpassing the 22 million jobs affected by the 2008-09 financial crisis. The retail, travel, and tourism sectors are particularly at risk. ILO Director-General Guy Ryder emphasized the crisis's impact on the labor market and economy, while ILO's Sangheon Lee suggested a likely global economic contraction of 4-5%. The ILO called for coordinated policy responses to mitigate labor income losses, which could reach $3.4 trillion by year's end. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated over 200,000 COVID-19 cases and 8,000 deaths have been reported. The World Economic Forum highlighted the negative effects of flight cutbacks and export restrictions on medical supply chains.

L’Oréal led the world in international trademark applications in 2019 with 189 filings, followed by Shiseido in seventh place with 84 filings. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) reported a 5.7 percent increase in international trademark applications across all sectors, with the U.S. leading in the number of applicants. WIPO Director-General Francis Gurry highlighted the significant impact of the coronavirus pandemic on intellectual property and economic disruption. The report also noted a rise in industrial design registrations and a record number of cybersquatting cases filed.

The apparel sector saw significant increases in trademark and industrial design applications globally in 2018, driven primarily by China. According to the World Intellectual Property Organization's report, Asia accounted for the majority of intellectual property applications, with China leading in both trademark and industrial design filings. The report highlights the importance of design and brand value in the fashion industry, with companies seeking to protect their intellectual property in international markets. Italy, Germany, and the U.S. were notable for their apparel industrial design applications filed abroad.

More than 130 member countries of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) reached a unanimous consensus to allow the U.S. to self-declare and increase postal rates starting July 1, 2020, preventing the U.S. from leaving the organization. The agreement, negotiated by Peter Navarro, aims to modernize the postal system and address issues such as counterfeit goods. UPU Secretary General Bishar A. Hussein hailed the deal as a historical moment, while Navarro emphasized that the new rates would not affect U.S. consumers.

Punitive tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Chinese imports have led to a significant decline in Chinese exports, with a 25 percent drop amounting to $35 billion in the first half of 2019. The U.N. report indicates that American consumers are facing higher prices, while Chinese exporters are experiencing substantial losses. Trade diversion effects have benefited countries like Bangladesh, the European Union, and others. The study also notes that Chinese exporters may be absorbing some tariff costs through lower export prices. The report underscores the broader economic risks of the ongoing trade war and calls for a potential trade agreement to mitigate these tensions.

Increasing sustainability demands from enterprises and investors are driving the growth of green Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in developing countries, particularly in textiles and apparel manufacturing. The U.N. report highlights a significant rise in SEZs globally, with a notable concentration in Asia. Key examples include Ethiopia's Hawassa eco-industrial park and Kenya's strategic environmental management initiatives. The report underscores the role of SEZs in economic transformation and global value chains, while also addressing concerns about working conditions and environmental impacts. Major brands like PVH Corp., Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein are noted for their contributions to eco-friendly manufacturing practices.

Bangladesh's dependence on textiles and apparel has reached a record 89.6 percent of total merchandise exports, amounting to $36.7 billion in 2017-2018. The World Trade Organization (WTO) report highlights the need for Bangladesh to diversify its export mix and improve labor and safety standards. The EU, U.S., Canada, and the International Labor Organization are working with Bangladesh to address these issues. The report also notes that Bangladesh is on track to graduate from least-developed country status by 2024, benefiting from duty-free and quota-free access to the EU market. The ready-made garment industry continues to receive significant incentives, including reduced corporate tax rates and concessional interest rates, contributing to the employment of approximately 5 million people.

Shiseido Co. Ltd. saw a significant increase in international trademark application filings in 2018, ranking seventh globally, while L’Oréal ranked second despite a decrease in filings. The World Intellectual Property Organization's report highlights the fashion and beauty industry's efforts to protect their brands, especially against online and traditional retail counterfeiting. The U.S. led in trademark applications, followed by Germany and China, with South Korea and Japan showing the fastest growth. A joint OECD and EU Intellectual Property Office report revealed that counterfeit goods represent 3.3 percent of global trade, with the majority originating from China and Hong Kong, and the U.S., France, and Italy being the most affected.

The UN Global Compact, promoting human rights, labor practices, environmental protection, and anti-corruption, is gaining corporate support amid climate change threats and globalization. At a Geneva summit, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon urged delegates to adopt the Compact's principles. Critics, however, demand that the UN ensure companies adhere to their commitments. Donald McDonald of the Principles for Responsible Investment highlighted a shift towards proactive corporate social responsibility.

The United States, represented by Ambassador Peter Allgeier, proposed a ban on harmful fishing subsidies at a WTO-sponsored meeting in Doha, Qatar. The proposal aimed to address overfishing and the depletion of fish stocks by eliminating government aid that contributes to excess fishing capacity. It garnered support from several countries but faced opposition from the European Union and others with strong fishing industries. Green advocacy groups, typically critical of the Bush administration, welcomed the proposal. Japan was identified as the largest subsidizer of fisheries, with the EU and China also providing significant subsidies.

Over 60 small and poor nations, predominantly from Africa, expressed apprehension that their interests might be overlooked in the World Trade Organization talks as major trading powers like the United States, European Union, Brazil, and India seek resolutions. Despite no breakthroughs, the talks were deemed constructive. African diplomats worry that a deal by the Group of 4 could ignore their issues with cotton subsidies and aid for trade. WTO Director General Pascal Lamy emphasized the need for these nations to be proactive in defending their interests. U.S. Trade Representative Susan Schwab faced criticism for the lack of transparency and vagueness regarding African concerns, particularly on cotton.

The average duty on farm goods entering the European Union increased last year, according to a WTO report, despite efforts to lower tariffs to aid global trade talks. The report highlighted that agricultural products faced significantly higher tariffs compared to manufactured goods. The EU's high tariffs on certain agricultural products were noted, with some exceeding 400 percent. U.S. ambassador Peter Allgeier urged the EU to reduce these tariffs, while EU representative Peter Balás emphasized the need for reciprocal offers in global negotiations. The Doha round of trade talks, which resumed after a collapse, continues to face challenges in reaching a comprehensive agreement.

Business leaders from Europe, North America, and Asia have warned that global trade talks will not succeed without significant market openings for services. The Global Services Coalition emphasized the need for substantial new market access in services to support the current trade negotiations. Executives highlighted the importance of including services in the trade deal to secure support from key capitals and to ensure the renewal of the U.S. President's trade promotion authority. They stressed the need for tangible outcomes in services, particularly in emerging markets like China, India, and Brazil. The article also notes the significant role of services exports for both developed and emerging countries.

The United States maintained its position as the leading nation in international patent applications in 2006, with a 6.1 percent increase from the previous year. South Korea and China showed the fastest growth in patent filings. The World Intellectual Property Organization reported a record 145,300 international patent applications, with the U.S. accounting for 49,555. The largest number of applications came from multinational companies, with Philips Electronics leading. Japan and Germany followed the U.S. in the number of filings, while South Korea and China saw significant increases. Francis Gurry highlighted the shift in innovation centers from Europe and North America to Northeast Asia. Research In Motion settled a trademark lawsuit with Samsung Electronics and won a British patent lawsuit, securing the future of its BlackBerry e-mail service in Britain.

The United States maintained its position as the leading country in international patent applications in 2006, with a 6.1 percent increase from the previous year, accounting for 34.1 percent of the global total. The World Intellectual Property Organization reported a record 145,300 international patent applications, with significant contributions from South Korea and China. Key sectors included telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, and information technology, with notable growth in semiconductors. Major multinational companies like Philips Electronics, Matsushita, Siemens, and Nokia were top applicants, while Huawei Technologies and LG Electronics showed significant advancements. Francis Gurry of WIPO highlighted the shift towards intangible assets and the competitive global economy as driving factors.

U.S. Trade Representative Susan Schwab expressed cautious optimism about reviving the Doha trade talks after a meeting with WTO head Pascal Lamy. Despite new political momentum, significant issues like agricultural market access remain unresolved. Lamy's upcoming diplomatic visits and the World Economic Forum in Davos are seen as critical. The talks, which began in 2001, stalled in July due to disagreements among major economies. High-level support from leaders like President George W. Bush and EU's José Manuel Barroso has renewed hopes for progress.

Top officials and business executives warn of turbulent times for the international trade system in 2007 unless a deal is concluded in the Doha round of negotiations. The talks collapsed in July after key nations failed to agree on farm subsidies and tariffs. Bilateral agreements may rise, potentially undermining the WTO's authority and escalating trade tensions. The WTO emphasizes that nothing is agreed until everything is agreed, and the upcoming World Economic Forum in Davos is seen as a stock-taking exercise rather than a negotiating meeting. National politics, such as President Bush's loss of the Republican majority and France's upcoming presidential election, cast a shadow over the negotiations.

The international trade system faces a critical year in 2007, with top officials and business executives warning of turbulent times unless a deal is reached in the Doha round of negotiations. The talks, which began in 2001, collapsed in July 2006 due to disagreements on farm subsidies and tariffs among the United States, the European Union, Japan, and India. The failure to reach a global trade agreement could lead to increased bilateral agreements, undermining the WTO's authority and escalating trade tensions among major economies like China, the United States, and the European Union. Experts also warn of a potential rise in protectionism. Pascal Lamy, director general of the WTO, and Peter Sutherland, chairman of BP and Goldman Sachs International, highlight the urgency and pessimism surrounding the current state of the negotiations.

Top officials and business executives warn of turbulent times for the international trade system unless the Doha round of WTO negotiations between developing and industrial nations can reach an agreement to liberalize global trade. The talks, aimed at improving trade in farm and industrial goods, collapsed after key nations failed to agree on farm subsidies and tariffs. The stalemate has led some countries to pursue bilateral agreements, potentially undermining the WTO's authority. Trade tensions and protectionism may rise without a global framework, increasing litigation over market access. The upcoming World Economic Forum in Davos and national politics in the U.S. and France cast further uncertainty on the negotiations.