Tanzania
Trademark Registration in Tanzania- Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Trademarks in Tanzania are governed by the Trade and Service Marks Act, Cap. 326 R.E. 2023, and administered by the Business Registrations and Licensing Agency (BRELA) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade. BRELA handles trademark filings, examination, publication, opposition, registration, and maintenance across mainland Tanzania (Tanganyika).
Why Trademark Registration in the Tanzania Is Important for Brand Protection?
Exclusive Rights: Gives you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout Tanzania.
Legal Enforcement: Enables you to take action against infringers, counterfeiters, and brand misuse through BRELA and Tanzanian courts.
Nationwide Protection: Secures brand protection across the entire territory of Tanzania, regardless of where the business operates.
Market Positioning: Enhances brand visibility, consumer trust, and competitive advantage in the Tanzanian market.
Trademark Registration Procedure in Tanzania
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in Tanzania.
Filing
The application is filed through the BRELA Online Registration System (ORS). Tanzania follows a single-class filing system, a separate application and fee must be paid for each class of goods or services. The application date establishes the priority date.
Examination
The Registrar examines the application for formal compliance, distinctiveness, and any conflicts with existing marks or legal prohibitions (e.g., public policy, descriptiveness). The Registrar issues an objection notice if found deficient, which the applicant must address.
Acceptance & Publication
If accepted, the trademark is published in the official Trade and Marks Journal. This initiates the opposition period.
Opposition Period
A 2-month statutory opposition period begins from the publication date. If an opposition is filed, proceedings are conducted before the Registrar
Registration
If there is no opposition, or if the opposition is successfully resolved in favour of the applicant, the required registration fee is paid, and the Certificate of Registration is issued.
Validity & Renewal
Registered trademark is valid for 7 years, renewable every 10 years. Renew within 6-month grace period after expiry with penalty fees.
Trademark Services Available in Tanzania
Attorney-Assisted Search
In-depth legal search for potential conflicts in Tanzania.
Trademark Registration Services
Complete filing and application management for Tanzanian trademarks.
Trademark Renewal Services
Hassle-free renewals to maintain your Tanzania trademark protection.
Watch & Monitoring Services
Continuous monitoring of Tanzanian trademarks to identify potential conflicts.
Ownership Transfer / Assignment
Efficient handling of trademark ownership transfers in Tanzania.
Licensing & Franchising Support
Expert guidance to license or expand your Tanzanian brand.
Documents for Filing
Applicant’s name and address and nationality
Clear Representation of the mark
Description of goods/services
A certified copy of the Certificate of Incorporation.
Priority claim (if applicable) with proof
Power of Attorney if filed through agent
| Service Description | Official Fee | Attorney Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filing/ Application fee | 30 | -- | 30 |
| Publication | 20 | -- | 20 |
| Maintenance fee | 10 | -- | 10 |
| Registration fee | 50 | -- | 50 |
Fees are indicative and subject to change. Contact us for the latest details.
**Last updated on: June 2, 2026
Timeline
Approx. 12–18 months for registration in a straightforward case without objections.
Validity & Renewal
Registered trademark is valid for 7 years, renewable every 10 years. Renew within 6-month grace period after expiry with penalty fees.
Need expert guidance for Tanzania 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 Tanzania 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.
