A trademark is a sign or symbol that distinguishes the goods or services of one business from those of others. It can be a word, logo, slogan, or a combination of these elements. Registering a trademark provides legal protection and exclusive rights to the owner, preventing others from using a similar mark for similar goods or services. It helps build brand recognition, trust, and value in the market.
Any individual, partnership, or legal entity, including companies, can apply for a trademark in Pakistan. Both local and foreign entities can seek trademark protection in the country.
The trademark registration process in Pakistan typically takes around 8 to 10 months, depending on the complexity of the application and any potential oppositions or delays.
In Pakistan, a trademark registration is initially valid for ten years from the filing date of the application. It can be renewed indefinitely for successive periods of ten years each.
The trademark office may refuse registration if the proposed mark is:
Generally, the use of geographic names in trademarks can be restricted, especially if the name is likely to cause confusion or deceive the public regarding the origin of the goods or services. However, some exceptions might apply in specific cases.
It's essential to monitor your registered trademark regularly to ensure that no one is infringing on your rights. You can engage trademark watch services or periodically search official databases and the market to identify potential infringements.