For brand owners seeking comprehensive coverage across the United Republic of Tanzania, it’s vital to recognize the country’s unique constitutional setup: Intellectual Property (IP) is a non-union matter. This means that protection in Tanzania Mainland (Tanganyika) and Zanzibar is governed by separate laws and administrative bodies.
A registration in Dar es Salaam offers zero legal protection in Stone Town, and vice versa. Securing exclusive rights across the entire market requires two separate applications.
Key Differences: Mainland (BRELA) vs. Zanzibar (BPRA)
While both jurisdictions adhere to international standards (like the Nice Classification and the Paris Convention), significant differences in administration and protection periods must be noted for an optimal filing strategy.
| Feature | Tanzania Mainland (BRELA) | Zanzibar (BPRA) | Strategic Note |
| Governing Authority | Business Registrations and Licensing Agency (BRELA) | Zanzibar Business and Property Registration Agency (BPRA) | The two offices do not communicate application data automatically. |
| Primary Law | Trade and Service Marks Act, 1986 (RE. 2023) | Zanzibar Industrial Property Act, 2008 | Zanzibar’s law is more modern, consolidating IP rights. |
| Filing Method | Predominantly Online via the Online Registration System (ORS). | Predominantly Physical Filing (though digital processes are being introduced). | |
| Initial Validity | 7 years from the date of filing. | 10 years from the date of filing. | |
| Renewal Term | Successive periods of 10 years. | Successive periods of 7 years. | |
| Opposition Period | 60 days from publication in the Trade and Service Marks Journal. | 60 days from publication in the Official Gazette. | |
| ARIPO Access | Yes (Tanzania is a member of the Banjul Protocol). | ARIPO access is less clear-cut for Zanzibar and generally advised to file nationally. |
Procedural Insight and SEO Strategy
Targeting high-value search traffic requires understanding where businesses face friction.
Friction Point 1: Single-Class Filing
Both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar adhere to a single-class filing system. This means that a separate application and separate set of government fees must be paid for each of the 45 Nice Classification classes. This must be budgeted for upfront.
Friction Point 2: The ARIPO Question
While Mainland Tanzania is a designated member of the Banjul Protocol (ARIPO), Zanzibar’s IP office is separate. Therefore, an ARIPO filing designating Tanzania will only provide protection in the Mainland and still necessitates a separate national filing in Zanzibar for full territorial coverage.
Friction Point 3: Timeframe
The approximate time frame for completing a smooth, unopposed registration is generally 3-4 months for the Mainland and can be shorter for Zanzibar, though this is heavily influenced by the speed of examination and publication in the respective registries.
The Author
The Author Sunday Ndamugoba is a partner with the firm. He can be reachable at sunday@rive.co.tz
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The content is a summary of the draft guidelines and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal counsel. Clients should consult with a qualified legal professional to understand how these guidelines specifically apply to their business operations. RIVE& Co. disclaims all liability for any actions taken or not taken based on this information.