Legal Framework for Trademarks in Bangladesh
Statutory Classification and Fees
Bangladesh follows the International Classification of Goods and Services (NICE Classification). Selecting the correct class is vital; an incorrect filing may lead to rejection or limited protection under Section 13.
| Stage | Form Code | Statutory Authority | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Search | TM-4 / Online | DPDT (IP Office) | Clearance for availability |
| Application | TM-1 | Registrar of Trademarks | Formal filing for registration |
| Opposition | TM-5 | Tribunal/Registrar | Challenging a published mark |
| Renewal | TM-12 | DPDT | Extension of 10-year term |
The Trademark Prosecution Roadmap
Procedural Requirements
- Availability Search: Conducted under Section 10 to ensure the mark is not identical or deceptively similar to an existing mark.
- Filing Form TM-1: Requires the applicant's details, a clear representation of the mark, and the specific list of goods/services.
- Examination: The Registrar examines the application for absolute grounds (Section 6) and relative grounds (Section 10) of refusal.
- Acceptance & Publication: If compliant, the mark is published in the Trademarks Journal for a 2-month opposition period (Section 18).
- Certification: If no opposition is filed, the Registrar issues the Certificate of Registration under Section 20.
Consult Barrister Liton Asaduzzaman Sarkar
For professional IP portfolio management and DPDT representation.
Schedule ScopingFrequently Asked Questions
What are the absolute grounds for refusal of a trademark?
Under Section 6 of the Trademarks Act 2009, a mark may be refused if it lacks distinctiveness, is descriptive of the goods, or consists of common surnames or geographical names.
How long is a trademark registration valid in Bangladesh?
Pursuant to Section 22 of the Trademarks Act 2009, a trademark is initially registered for a period of 7 years, and can be renewed every 10 years thereafter upon payment of prescribed fees.
Can I file a trademark for multiple classes in one application?
No, Bangladesh currently follows a single-class filing system. A separate Form TM-1 must be filed for each class as per the Trademarks Rules 2015.
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