Protecting a brand in Zanzibar—an autonomous region of Tanzania with its own distinct intellectual property (IP) laws—requires diligent attention, particularly when it comes to renewing your trademark registration. Governed by the Zanzibar Industrial Property Act of 2008, the process of renewal is essential for maintaining the exclusive rights to your brand.
Trademark Duration and Renewal Timelines
Unlike many jurisdictions, Zanzibar has a unique structure for the trademark validity period:
- Initial Term: A trademark registration in Zanzibar is initially valid for ten years from the date of application.
- Subsequent Renewals: After the initial term, the registration is renewable indefinitely for successive periods of seven years each.
When to File for Renewal
To ensure seamless protection, the trademark renewal application should be filed:
- Before Expiry: It is highly recommended to file at least three months before the expiry date of the current term.
- Grace Period: If the deadline is missed, the mark may be renewed during a grace period of six (6) months after the expiration date, though this will incur a late renewal fee.
The Renewal Process and Requirements
The process for renewing a registered trademark in Zanzibar is managed by the Zanzibar Industrial Property Office (ZIPO), which operates under the Zanzibar Business and Property Registration Agency (BPRA).
Key Requirements
To complete the renewal, you will need to submit the following:
- Power of Attorney (POA): A simply signed Power of Attorney from the trademark proprietor is required for the agent to act on their behalf.
- Renewal Application Form: A completed specific form confirming the owner’s wish to renew the trademark.
- Required Documents: Supporting documents may include the original registration certificate or the last renewal certificate, which helps to confirm the correct renewal date and details of the proprietor.
- Payment of Fees: Payment of the requisite renewal and maintenance fees.
The entire renewal proceeding typically takes approximately 1 to 2 weeks from the filing date until the Renewal Resolution is issued.
Impact of Revised Official Fees (Post-August 2025)
Brand owners must be aware of significant changes to the fee structure in Zanzibar:
- Fee Increase: The Zanzibar IP Office implemented a substantial increase in official fees for all intellectual property services, including renewals, effective August 11, 2025.
- Retrospective Application: Critically, the revised, higher fees apply retrospectively to all applications, renewals, and recordals where the official fees remained unpaid on or after the August 11, 2025, effective date.
- Mitigation: To mitigate the increased costs, IP rights holders were strongly advised to settle any outstanding official fees before the effective date.
Trademark Vulnerability: Non-Use
It’s important to remember that trademark renewal is not just a fee payment; it’s a commitment to use the mark. A registered trademark in Zanzibar becomes vulnerable to a cancellation action based on non-use if it has not been used for more than five years after its registration date. Timely renewal and proof of continued use are the best ways to secure your exclusive rights.
Disclaimer
The content of this update is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It should not be relied upon without seeking specific legal counsel on any particular matter.
Author Details
The author is Sunday Ndamugoba , Partner, RIVE&Co he can be reached at sunday@rive.co.tz