TAFE gets relief from HC for using Massey Ferguson trademark

The dispute stems from a trademark conflict over the use of the “Massey Ferguson” brand in India. TAFE, an Indian tractor manufacturer with operations since 1960, has long used the brand under licensing agreements with MFC, a subsidiary of AGCO Corporation.
The Madras High Court on Wednesday directed Tractors and Farm Equipment (TAFE) Limited and Massey Ferguson Corporation (MFC) to maintain the status quo regarding the use of the Massey Ferguson trademark in India, ensuring use of the brand by TAFE until the disposal of a civil suit between the two parties.
The dispute stems from a trademark conflict over the use of the “Massey Ferguson” brand in India. TAFE, an Indian tractor manufacturer with operations since 1960, has long used the brand under licensing agreements with MFC, a subsidiary of AGCO Corporation.
In April 2024, MFC terminated the trademark license agreement, prompting TAFE to file a suit in the Madras HC, arguing that it had a legitimate claim over the brand in India.