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.
How the Ethiopia Trademark Registration Works
The Ethiopian trademark registration system follows a structured sequence of reviews, publications, and legal checks. These steps ensure that trademarks meet all statutory requirements and remain protected over time.
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.
Governing Law & Competent Authority
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
Free Trademark Search
Initial screening to check availability
Attorney-Assisted Search
In-depth legal search for conflicts.
Trademark Registration Services
Full filing and application management.
Trademark Renewal Services
Hassle-free renewals to keep your protection active.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Smooth handling of trademark ownership changes.
Licensing & Franchising Support
Guidance to monetize and expand your 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: March 17, 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.
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