Legal Framework for Intellectual Property
Statutory Fee Structure
Fees are categorized based on the nature of the application (Individual vs. Entity) and the stage of the process. Below is the current schedule of government fees as per the Trademarks Rules 2015.
| Service Description | Statutory Form | Government Fee (BDT) |
|---|---|---|
| Application for Registration (Per Class) | TM-1 / TM-2 | ৳ 5,000 |
| Search Request (Per Class) | TM-4 | ৳ 1,000 |
| Registration/Certification Fee | TM-11 | ৳ 15,000 |
| Renewal Fee (Every 10 Years) | TM-12 | ৳ 10,000 |
The Registration Roadmap
Procedural Requirements
- Search & Clearance: Conduct a comprehensive search under Section 10 of the Trademarks Act 2009 to ensure the mark is not identical or deceptively similar to an existing registered mark.
- Filing the Application: Submission of Form TM-1 with the Registrar. Foreign applicants must appoint a local agent via a Power of Attorney (Form TM-48).
- Examination: The Registrar examines the application for distinctiveness under Section 6 and absolute grounds for refusal under Section 8.
- Advertisement: If accepted, the mark is published in the Trademarks Journal. Any aggrieved party may file an opposition within 2 months under Section 18.
- Registration: If no opposition is filed, the Registrar issues the Certificate of Registration, providing protection for an initial period of 7 years, renewable for 10-year increments thereafter.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Generic Terms: Attempting to register descriptive or generic terms which lack distinctiveness under Section 6(1).
- Non-Use Vulnerability: Failure to use the mark for a continuous period of 5 years may lead to cancellation under Section 42.
- Incorrect Classification: Misclassifying goods/services under the Nice Classification system, leading to inadequate protection.
Consult Barrister Liton Asaduzzaman Sarkar
For complex IP litigation, opposition proceedings, or international filings under the Madrid Protocol, professional legal counsel is essential.
Schedule Legal ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
How long does trademark protection last in Bangladesh?
Under Section 22 of the Trademarks Act 2009, the initial registration is valid for 7 years. It can be renewed indefinitely for subsequent periods of 10 years each upon payment of the prescribed fees.
Can a trademark be cancelled for non-use?
Yes. According to Section 42 of the Trademarks Act 2009, a registered trademark may be removed from the register if it was registered without a bona fide intention to use it, or if there has been no bona fide use for a continuous period of 5 years.
What constitutes trademark infringement in Bangladesh?
Infringement occurs under Section 26 of the Trademarks Act 2009 when a person uses a mark that is identical or deceptively similar to a registered trademark in relation to goods or services for which it is registered, without authorization.
◆ Related Statutory Guides & Practice Insights
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