Central Asian AI Industry: Trademark protection and branding strategies

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed economies across Central Asia, yet trademark policy gaps hamper growth. This paper investigates fea- tures of trademark regulation and their impact on domestic AI enterprises. A comparative analysis of the laws of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, benchmarked against international IP treaties, demon- strates the importance of striving for legal development. Despite some progress, most countries do not yet fully address issues like protections for well-known marks and non-traditional trademarks critical for AI. Registration and enforcement mechanisms also lag global standards. These legal uncertainties and hurdles constrain emerging regional AI leaders seeking to leverage branding. Case studies of leading firms high- light cross-border trademark management challenges. Recommendations include acceding to international treaties, strengthening online brand enforcement, and public-private collaboration on reforms tailored to AI sector needs. Key findings show substantial upgrades to statutory provi- sions, registration systems and regional cooperation are urgently required to support the rise of Central Asian AI. This research strives to fill an important gap in the trademark ecosystem for a vital high-tech growth engine. It provides policymakers and enterprises a roadmap to transform Central Asia into a thriving AI IP center through legal modernization and strategic global branding.

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