How to Register a Trademark in Bangladesh: A Step-by-Step Guide
A trademark is a unique symbol, design, or phrase that distinguishes a company’s products or services from those of its competitors. Registering a trademark in Bangladesh is a crucial step for businesses that want to protect their brand identity and prevent others from using their intellectual property without permission. In this article, we will walk you through the process of registering a trademark in Bangladesh, step by step.
Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search
Before you begin the registration process, you should conduct a trademark search to ensure that your proposed trademark is not already in use by another company. You can perform a search online through the Bangladesh Trademark Office website, or you can hire a professional trademark attorney to perform a comprehensive search on your behalf.
Step 2: File the Trademark Application
Once you have confirmed that your proposed trademark is available, you can begin the application process. The first step is to file a trademark application with the Bangladesh Intellectual Property Office (IPO). You can file the application online or in person at the IPO’s office in Dhaka.
The application should include the following information:
- The name, address, and nationality of the applicant
- The trademark’s graphical representation
- The goods or services that the trademark will cover
The application fee must be paid when you submit the application. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected.
Step 3: Examination of the Trademark Application
After the application is submitted, it will be examined by the IPO to ensure that it meets all the requirements for registration. The IPO will check for conflicts with existing trademarks, and also whether the trademark is distinctive and not generic.
If the IPO approves the application, it will be published in the Bangladesh Trademarks Journal. If there are any objections raised by third parties, the IPO will inform you of the same, and you will be given an opportunity to respond.
Step 4: Opposition Proceedings
If a third party opposes your trademark application, you will need to defend your application through the opposition proceedings. This process can be lengthy and expensive, and it is essential to have a trademark attorney representing you.
Step 5: Registration and Issuance of the Trademark Certificate
If no oppositions are filed or if the opposition proceedings are resolved in your favor, the IPO will issue a certificate of registration for your trademark. The certificate will include the trademark’s graphical representation, the registration number, the goods and services covered, and the date of registration.
The trademark registration in Bangladesh is valid for ten years and can be renewed for an additional ten years. It is important to keep track of the renewal deadline and to renew the registration promptly to ensure that your trademark remains protected.
Conclusion
Registering a trademark in Bangladesh is an essential step for any business that wants to protect its brand identity and intellectual property. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can ensure that your trademark registration process goes smoothly and efficiently.
Remember to conduct a comprehensive trademark search, file the application correctly, respond to any objections raised, and renew the registration on time. With the help of a professional trademark attorney, you can secure your trademark registration in Bangladesh and prevent others from using your intellectual property without permission.