In an increasingly competitive market, your brand is one of your most valuable assets. A trademark is a unique identifier for your goods or services, distinguishing them from others. By registering your trademark in South Africa, you gain the exclusive right to use it and can prevent others from infringing on your brand.
To inspire you: the Nike® logo is estimated to be worth $26 billion.
So:
Here's a brief guide on how to register a trademark in South Africa and why it's crucial for your business.
Initial Consultation and Brand Assessment
Trademark Search
Filing the Application
Publication and Granting of the Trademark
Once your trademark is registered with the CIPC, you will have the exclusive right to use your brand in relation to the goods or services specified in your registration. The registered trademark will:
Although you can start using your brand before filing a trademark application, it is always best to file the trademark first. This establishes your legal rights from the date of filing, providing stronger protection than simply using the mark without registration.
If you wish to extend your brand beyond South Africa, we can assist you in filing trademark applications in other countries. This is ideally done within 6 months of registering your South African trademark to take advantage of certain international treaties, but it can also be done at a later stage.
At S&Z, we specialise in providing expert guidance throughout the entire trademark registration process. Whether you're just starting or looking to expand your business internationally, we can help you navigate the complexities of trademark law and ensure your brand is well-protected.
Contact us today to get started and safeguard your brand’s future!
[The SANi trademark is not created by Treaty]
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