Most countries have their own Trademark Offices which register trademarks. Therefore, when contemplating trademark protection in other countries, it is most helpful to start with a list of countries where registered trademark protection is available, such as the one attached as "Appendix A," and a map. Deciding where to register a trademark outside of the United States involves numerous considerations. Countries where a trademark or service mark is currently in use should be the first to be considered for seeking registered protection. If the trademark owner is contemplating commencing use shortly or expanding use to other countries within a few years, then such countries should also be included. The third category of countries will be those where counterfeit activity is expected to emanate. The last group of countries should be those where third parties have a history of unauthorized registration of other's marks, such as many countries in Latin America, southeast Asia and the Pacific. Cost considerations will be paramount in arriving at a final list.