The Madras High Court has ruled to maintain the status quo, allowing Tractors and Farm Equipment Limited (TAFE) to continue using the Massey Ferguson brand in India until a final decision is reached on the ownership of the brand within the country. A learned Judge of the Madras High Court yesterday, in the ongoing Massey Ferguson brand suit, ordered a status quo on the usage of the Massey Ferguson brand in India, in favour of TAFE ensuring thereby uninterrupted exclusive use of the Massey Ferguson brand in India until disposal of the suit. The Judge passed orders on TAFE’s applications after a detailed hearing, observing that TAFE had made out a ‘prima facie’ case and that the ‘balance of convenience’ is in favour of TAFE. TAFE has been using the brand uninterruptedly since 1960 in India. The court, in its order, referred extensively to an earlier status quo order of the Division Bench.
AGCO, the parent company of Massey Ferguson, has expressed respect for the ruling but made it clear that it is a temporary measure and not based on evidence yet to be presented by AGCO in court. The company reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its 177-year-old Massey Ferguson brand globally, including in India.
In response to the court's decision, AGCO announced that it is reviewing the terms of the court order and considering appropriate legal measures, including an appeal. The company emphasized the importance of safeguarding intellectual property, asserting that trademark protection is vital for innovation, investment, and global industry standards.
AGCO also reiterated its commitment to supporting India's agricultural sector as part of its broader mission to provide farmers with reliable and high-quality machinery. The company emphasized its 'Farmer-First' strategy, ensuring that Massey Ferguson will continue to prioritize the needs of Indian farmers.
One of the key points in AGCO's statement is its assertion that TAFE's claims over the Massey Ferguson trademarks are contradictory. AGCO pointed out that TAFE has long been a licensee of the brand in India and that it cannot simultaneously assert ownership rights while being a trademark licensee. Over the past five decades, TAFE has signed multiple agreements acknowledging its role as a licensee of the Massey Ferguson brand.
AGCO's legal battle with TAFE has already seen several favorable rulings for AGCO, including decisions in its favor regarding jurisdiction, contempt of court, supply agreements, and brand ownership at the Supreme Court level.
In a significant development earlier in September 2024, AGCO issued termination notices to TAFE, ending their Massey Ferguson brand license agreement with immediate effect. AGCO cited unauthorized actions by TAFE as a breach of the various agreements in place. Subsequently, AGCO launched legal proceedings against TAFE in Indian courts over the use of the Massey Ferguson brand, with the case still ongoing.
