Establishing a strong brand identity is more important than ever in today’s competitive world. Protecting your business name, logo, or slogan through trademark registration is a key step in protecting your brand. For entrepreneurs and businesses in Bangladesh, securing a trademark gives you exclusive rights to use your mark and prevents others from using it for their own benefit. Registering a trademark not only protects your brand but also adds value to your intellectual property portfolio. If you’re thinking about registering a trademark in Bangladesh, here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Understanding Trademarks
Before you start registering your trademark, you should understand what trademarks are. In Bangladesh, you can use a word, name, symbol, device, or a combination of these elements as a trademark. Trademarks help you identify and distinguish your goods or services from others in the market.
Conduct a Trademark Search
We recommend that you begin by conducting a comprehensive trademark search to ensure your desired mark is unique and doesn’t infringe on any prior marks. You can conduct this search through a local trademark attorney or agent.
Filing an Application
Once you confirm the availability of your trademark, the next step is to file an application online with the Department of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks (DPDT). You must include details such as your name, address, the trademark itself, and the goods or services the mark will represent.
Examination Process
The DPDT will examine the application after receiving it to ensure it complies with the requirements of the Trademarks Act, 2009, and its associated rules. The examination includes assessing whether the mark is distinctive and eligible for registration.
Publication in the Trademark Journal
If the DPDT finds the application in order, it will issue an acceptance notice and instruct the applicant to deposit the requisite publication fees. The DPDT publishes the trademark in the Journal. This publication notifies the public, allowing interested parties to oppose the registration within a specified period, usually 60 days from the publication date.
Opposition Proceedings
If no one opposes or if the opposition fails, the trademark proceeds to registration. However, if someone files an opposition and wins, the trademark office may refuse the application or impose certain conditions.
Registration and Issuance of Certificate
After successfully completing the opposition period, you can register the trademark by paying the requisite registration fees, and then the authority will issue a registration certificate. This certificate proves ownership and grants exclusive rights to use the mark in connection with the specified goods or services.
For any further inquiries regarding trademark registration in Bangladesh, please contact us.
