The Intellectual Property Centre at the European Union Chamber of Commerce in Korea expressed deep concern over the New Zealand government’s decision to prohibit the use of trademarks and logos on tobacco packaging.

“We would like to call for a careful consideration of the potentially harmful consequences of such a measure,” the center said in a statement.

“The IP Center at EUCCK strongly advocates for the full enjoyment and protection of trademarks and other registered intellectual property in Korea and abroad.”

The comments came after the New Zealand government’s announcement on April 19 that it will launch a consultation on “plain packaging.” Australia has already decided to implement such a measure later this year.

The Korea Trademark Association also said on Thursday that plain packaging regulations should be reconsidered. New Zealand’s policy “can lead to excessive regulation on intellectual properties rights and trademark rights in the country that is a partner in Korea’s ongoing free trade agreement talks,” it said.

The EUCCK is a non-profit organization that represents the EU business community in Korea. The purpose of the chamber is to help develop trade, commercial and industrial relations between the EU and Korea.

By Park Min-young (claire@heraldcorp.com)