A trademark is a distinctive sign or name, which identifies certain goods or services of one producer from those of another.

In this article, we will discuss how you can register your own trademark in Zimbabwe and why you should register it.

What is a Trademark?

A trademark is a distinctive sign or name, which identifies certain goods or services of one producer from those of another.

How to register a Trademark in Zimbabwe

Registration of a trademark in Zimbabwe is done in accordance with the Trade Marks Act [chapter 26:04] and Trade Marks Regulations [2005].

First, an application for registration of a trademark must be filed with the national trademark office, which in this case is the Zimbabwe Intellectual Property Office.

The application must contain 10 clear reproductions of the mark filed for registration, including any colours, forms, devices or three-dimensional features.

The application must also contain a list of goods or services to which the mark would apply. The mark must fulfil certain conditions in order to be protected as a trademark or service mark.

It must be distinctive so that consumers can distinguish it as identifying a particular product, as well as from other trademarks identifying other products. It must neither mislead nor deceive customers or violate public order or morality.

Finally, the rights applied for cannot be the same as, or similar to, rights already granted to another trademark owner.

This may be determined through search and examination by the Office, or by the opposition of third parties who claim similar or identical rights.

In Zimbabwe, we do have quite a number of registered trademarks such as Schweppes, Air Zimbabwe, Econet and very soon Kudfort.

Why register a trademark in Zimbabwe?

Registration confers legal rights to the owner of the trademark.

A trademark allows the proprietor to authorize another to use it in return for payment [licensing].

Advantages of Registering A Trademark in Zimbabwe

-Trademarks promote initiative and enterprise worldwide by rewarding the owners of the trademarks with recognition and financial profit.

-Trademark protection hinders the efforts of unfair competitors, such as counterfeiters, to use similar distinctive signs to market inferior or different products or services.

-The system enables knowledgeable traders to produce and market goods and services in the fairest possible conditions, thereby facilitating international trade.

-Trademarks can identify the commercial source of goods or services

How to register a Trademark at ZIPO in Zimbabwe” 

-Lodge Form T.M 5, 10 identical logos & US$200.00 with ZIPO.

-Search & examination is initiated after the lodging of documents.

-The applicant meets official objections if applicable.

-Advertise mark in the Trade Marks Journal at a fee.

-Opposition period of two months from the date of advert.

-Request for Sealing (US$80.00) within 2 months from date of advertisement.

-Renew the trademark after every ten years at the prevailing fees

-Restore the mark within three years from the date of last renewal

-Re-apply for the trademark outside three years of restoration

Hope you find this piece informative

At, Kudfort we can help you register your trade.

We can be contacted on +263 6821 28575
+263 772 592232
+263 719 592232

Email: info@kudfort.co.zw / verekudzi@gmail.com

Or visit our website

https://www.kudfort.co.zw

Written by Kudzanai Vere who can be reached on the above contact details.

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