EU Blocks Registration for ‘Contrary’ Marijuana Trademarks (1)

Logos implying sale of marijuana products can’t get trademark protection in the European Union because they’re “contrary to public policy,"an EU court said, posing a new challenge for companies seeking marijuana-related EU trademarks.

The public would perceive a sign reading “Cannabis Store Amsterdam” with green cannabis leaves in the background as referencing narcotics, the EU General Court said, upholding a EU Intellectual Property Office ruling.

The Dec. 12 decision doesn’t ban registration for all references to cannabis, which can be legal in most EU countries with a low enough concentration of marijuana’s psychoactive element. But the court effectively blocked registration ...