HOW TOREGISTER A TRADEMARK IN TANZANIA

Are youconsidering expanding your business to Tanzania or protecting your brand in theTanzanian market? Registering a trademark is a crucial step to safeguard yourbrand identity and intellectual property rights. In this comprehensive guide,we’ll walk you through the process of registering a trademark in Tanzania,ensuring that you understand the necessary steps and requirements.

              1.           Conduct a Trademark Search:

Beforeinitiating the registration process, it’s essential to conduct a thoroughtrademark search to ensure that your desired trademark is available and notalready in use by another entity in Tanzania. This step helps prevent potentialconflicts and rejection of your application during the registration process.

              2.           Prepare the Trademark Application:

Once you’veconfirmed the availability of your trademark, prepare the trademark applicationform provided by Registrar of Trademark at BusinessRegistration and Licensing Agency (BRELA). Provide accurate details,including the applicant’s name and address, a representation of the trademark,and a list of goods or services the trademark will cover.

              3.           Submit the Application to Business Registration andLicensing Agency (BRELA

Submit thecompleted trademark application form along with the required supportingdocuments, such as a power of attorney if you’re using an agent, and proof ofpayment for the application fees, to the Business Registration and LicensingAgency (BRELA. Ensure that your application complies with the specified formatand requirements to avoid delays or rejection.

              4.           Trademark Examination:

The TIPOwill examine your trademark application to assess its compliance with legalrequirements and verify its distinctiveness. This examination process aims toensure that your trademark is eligible for registration and does not conflictwith existing trademarks in Tanzania.

              5.           Publication and Opposition Period:

If yourtrademark application meets all requirements, it will be published in theTanzania Official Gazette to allow for a designated period during which thirdparties can file oppositions if they believe your trademark infringes on theirrights. Address any oppositions promptly and appropriately to resolve potentialconflicts.

              6.           Trademark Registration:

Uponsuccessful completion of the examination process and resolution of anyoppositions, your trademark will be registered by the Business Registration andLicensing Agency (BRELA. You will receive a certificate of registration,providing legal protection for your trademark in Tanzania.

              7.           Trademark Renewal:

Rememberthat trademark registration in Tanzania is valid for an initial period of sevenyears, renewable indefinitely for successive ten-year periods upon payment ofrenewal fees. Ensure timely renewal to maintain the validity and protection ofyour trademark rights.