Ethiopia
Trademark Registration in Ethiopia - Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Trademark matters in Ethiopia are administered by the Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority (EIPA). Ethiopia operates a national trademark system and is not a member of OAPI, ARIPO, or the Madrid System. The authority is responsible for filing, examination, publication, opposition, and registration of trademarks. The system follows a first-to-file principle and includes both formal and substantive examination.
Introduction
Ethiopia is one of the largest and fastest-growing economies in East Africa, with key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, and services. As a major regional market with increasing foreign investment, securing trademark protection in Ethiopia is essential for businesses looking to establish and protect their brand in a high-growth environment.
Why Trademark Registration in Ethiopia Is Important for Brand Protection?
Exclusive Rights: Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout Ethiopia.
Legal Enforcement: Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through the Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority (EIPA) and relevant courts.
Nationwide Protection: Secures trademark protection across the entire territory of Ethiopia.
Regional Protection Advantage: Ethiopia is not a member of ARIPO or OAPI, so trademark protection must be obtained through national registration within the country.
Trademark Registration Procedure in Ethiopia
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in Ethiopia
Filing
Trademark applications are filed with EIPA through a local agent, including applicant details, representation of the mark, and specification of goods/services under the Nice Classification.
Examination
EIPA conducts both formal and substantive examination to assess compliance and registrability.
Publication
If accepted, the trademark application is published in the Official Gazette.
Opposition Period
Third parties may file an opposition within 60 days from the date of publication of the trademark application in the official bulletin.
Registration
If no opposition is filed, or if opposition proceedings are resolved in favor of the applicant, the trademark is registered and a certificate is issued.
Validity & Renewal
Trademarks are valid for 7 years from the filing date and may be renewed for successive 7-year periods upon payment of renewal fees.
Governing Law
Trademark protection in Ethiopia is governed by the Trademark Registration and Protection Proclamation. The Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority (EIPA) is the competent authority responsible for trademark administration and registration.
Trademark Services Available in Ethiopia
Attorney-Assisted Search
In-depth legal search for potential conflicts in Ethiopia.
Trademark Registration Services
Complete filing and application management for Ethiopia trademarks.
Trademark Renewal Services
Hassle-free renewals to maintain your Ethiopia trademark protection.
Watch & Monitoring Services
Continuous monitoring of Ethiopia trademarks to identify potential conflicts.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Efficient handling of trademark ownership transfers in Ethiopia.
Licensing & Franchising Support
Expert guidance to license or expand your Ethiopia brand.
Documents for Filing
Trademark details and logo (if applicable)
Description of goods/services
Name and address of Applicant
Power of Attorney (signed copy)
Priority document (if priority is claimed)
Fees are indicative and subject to change. Contact us for the latest details.
**Last updated on: June 30, 2026
Timeline
Approx. 12–18 months for registration in a straightforward case without objections.
Validity & Renewal
Trademarks are valid for 7 years from the filing date and may be renewed for successive 7-year periods upon payment of renewal fees.
Need expert guidance for Ethiopia trademark registration?
Book a 1:1 consultation with our trademark specialists.
Register early under the first-to-file system to prevent brand hijacking.
Insights on Ethiopia IP Protection
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Ready To Protect Your Brand
Don’t leave your intellectual property unprotected. With LP GLOBAL, trademark registration becomes clear, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, our expert team ensures your brand is safeguarded every step of the way.
