Gabon
Trademark Registration in Gabon - Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Trademark matters in Gabon are administered by the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI). Gabon does not have a national trademark registration system. Instead, a single application filed with OAPI provides protection in all 17 member states, including Gabon. The system is based on the Bangui Agreement and follows a first-to-file principle, including formal and substantive examination.
Introduction
Gabon, located in Central Africa, is a resource-rich country with a developing economy driven by oil, mining, and forestry sectors. As a member of OAPI, Gabon offers businesses a regional trademark protection system, enabling protection across multiple African jurisdictions through a single application. This makes it strategically beneficial for companies targeting expansion in Francophone Africa.
Why Trademark Registration in Gabon Is Important for Brand Protection?
Exclusive Rights: Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout Gabon.
Legal Enforcement: Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through Gabon’s legal system and relevant authorities.
Nationwide Protection: Secures trademark protection across the entire territory of Gabon.
Regional Protection Advantage: Gabon is a member of OAPI (Organisation Africaine de la Propriété Intellectuelle), allowing trademark protection across multiple member countries through a single registration.
Trademark Registration Procedure in Gabon
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in Gabon.
Filing
Trademark applications are filed with OAPI, including applicant details, representation of the mark, and specification of goods/services under the Nice Classification.
Examination
OAPI conducts both formal and substantive examination to assess compliance with the Bangui Agreement.
Publication
Accepted applications are published in the OAPI Official Bulletin.
Opposition Period
Third parties may file an opposition within 3 months from the date of publication for applications filed on or after January 1, 2022.
Registration
If no opposition is filed, or if opposition is resolved in favor of the applicant, the trademark proceeds to registration and a certificate is issued.
Governing Law & Competent Authority
Trademark protection in Gabon is governed by the Bangui Agreement and the regulations of the Organisation Africaine de la Propriété Intellectuelle (OAPI). The Bangui Agreement was revised in 2015, with the new provisions coming into effect on January 1, 2022. The competent authority is the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI).
Trademark Services Available in Gabon
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)
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. 8–12 months for registration in a straightforward case without objections.
Validity & Renewal
Trademarks registered through OAPI are valid for 10 years from the filing date and may be renewed indefinitely for successive 10-year periods upon payment of renewal fees
Need expert guidance for Gabon 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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