In today’s competitive market, protecting your brand is more important than ever. One of the most effective ways to secure your brand identity is through trademark registration. In Pakistan, trademarks are regulated under the Trademarks Ordinance, 2001, and are administered by the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan). This article provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to register a trademark in Pakistan.
What Is a Trademark?
A trademark is any distinctive sign, symbol, logo, word, phrase, or combination thereof that identifies and distinguishes goods or services of one entity from another. It is a vital asset for building brand recognition, customer trust, and legal protection.
Why Register a Trademark in Pakistan?
Registering a trademark in Pakistan provides the following benefits:
- Exclusive rights to use the mark nationwide in connection with your goods or services.
- Legal protection against infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized use.
- Enhanced brand value, especially for licensing, franchising, or investor negotiations.
- Right to initiate legal action against infringers in Pakistani courts.
Step-by-Step Process to Register a Trademark in Pakistan
1. Trademark Search
Before filing an application, conduct a comprehensive trademark search through the IPO-Pakistan database. This helps determine whether a similar or identical trademark is already registered, reducing the risk of objections or refusals.
👉 You can perform the search on the IPO Pakistan website.
2. Filing the Application
If the mark is available, the next step is to file a trademark application (Form TM-1) for registration. You must submit the application to the Trademarks Registry along with:
- Applicant’s details (individual or company)
- A clear representation of the trademark
- Class(es) of goods or services (as per the Nice Classification)
- Power of attorney (if filing through an agent)
- Prescribed government fee
💡 You can file the application online via IPO Pakistan’s e-filing portal or submit it physically at one of their regional offices.
3. Examination by IPO
After submission, the application is examined by the Registrar of Trademarks for any legal or procedural discrepancies. The examination focuses on:
- Distinctiveness
- Conflicts with existing marks
- Compliance with trademark law
If objections arise, an examination report is issued. You will have an opportunity to respond or attend a hearing to clarify your position.
4. Publication in the Trademarks Journal
If the application passes examination, it is published in the Trademarks Journal for public notice. This allows any third party to oppose the registration within two months from the date of publication.
5. Opposition Proceedings (If Any)
If an opposition is filed, both parties are given a chance to submit evidence and appear before the Registrar. If no opposition is raised, or the opposition is resolved in your favor, the registration process continues.
6. Issuance of Registration Certificate
Once the trademark clears all stages, the registration certificate is issued. Your trademark is now officially registered and protected in Pakistan for an initial period of 10 years, renewable indefinitely.
Duration and Renewal of Trademark
- Initial validity: 10 years from the date of application
- Renewal: Every 10 years, with Form TM-12 and prescribed fee
- Grace period: 6 months (with surcharge)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not conducting a proper availability search
- Filing under the wrong trademark class
- Ignoring examination notices or deadlines
- Failure to renew on time
- Not monitoring the market for potential infringement
How We Can Help
At Rights and Counsel, our team of intellectual property lawyers provides end-to-end trademark services including:
- Comprehensive availability searches
- Filing and prosecution of trademark applications
- Handling oppositions and objections
- Renewal and maintenance services
- Trademark enforcement and litigation
Final Thoughts
Registering your trademark in Pakistan is not only a smart business move—it’s a legal necessity in today’s fast-moving market. With the right legal guidance and timely action, you can safeguard your brand’s reputation, build consumer trust, and secure long-term commercial success.
Need assistance with trademark registration in Pakistan?
Contact Rights and Counsel today for expert legal support tailored to your business needs.