Guinea Bissau
Trademark Registration in Guinea-Bissau - Protect Your Brand Nationwide
Trademark matters in Guinea-Bissau are administered by the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI). As a member state, Guinea-Bissau does not have its own national trademark registration system. A single application filed with OAPI provides trademark protection in all 17 OAPI member states simultaneously, including Guinea-Bissau. This “all or nothing” system means protection is automatically unitary across all member countries, and applicants cannot designate specific states.
Introduction
Guinea-Bissau is a West African nation with an economy primarily driven by agriculture (cashew nuts, rice, and fish) and forestry. While the country faces developmental challenges, it offers opportunities in sectors such as agribusiness and fisheries. As a member of OAPI, securing trademark protection through the regional system ensures brand protection in Guinea-Bissau as well as in 16 other African markets (mainly French-speaking nations), making it an efficient strategy for businesses looking to establish a presence in West and Central Africa.
Why Trademark Registration in Guinea-Bissau Is Important for Brand Protection?
Exclusive Rights: Grants you exclusive legal ownership and control over your trademark for the registered goods/services throughout Guinea-Bissau.
Legal Enforcement: Enables you to take action against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use through Guinea-Bissau’s legal system and relevant authorities.
Nationwide Protection: Secures trademark protection across the entire territory of Guinea-Bissau.
Regional Protection Advantage: Guinea-Bissau 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 Guinea Bissau
Here is the step-by-step process followed for trademark registration in Guinea-Bissau.
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 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 proceedings are resolved in favor of the applicant, the trademark is registered, and a certificate is issued. The registration takes effect in all 17 OAPI member states simultaneously.
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.
Governing Law
Trademark protection in Guinea-Bissau is governed by the Bangui Agreement (revised in 2015, effective January 1, 2022), which serves as the foundational treaty for OAPI and harmonizes intellectual property laws across all member states. The competent authority is the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI), headquartered in Yaoundé, Cameroon. OAPI is also a member of the Paris Convention, Madrid Protocol, and TRIPS Agreement.
Trademark Services Available in Guinea Bissau
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)
| Service Description | Official Fee | Attorney Fee | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trademark Search (Optional) | -- | -- | 0 |
| Registration (Filing to Registration) | -- | -- | 0 |
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.
Need expert guidance for Guinea Bissau trademark registration?
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