Introduction
Registering a trademark in Zanzibar is an independent legal process, separate from Mainland Tanzania. Businesses seeking full protection across the United Republic of Tanzania must understand that trademark rights are territorial, and registration in Mainland Tanzania does not extend to Zanzibar.
Trademark registration in Zanzibar is governed by the Zanzibar Industrial Property Act, No. 4 of 2008, which replaced the former Trade Marks Decree (Cap. 159).
The registration process is administered by the Zanzibar Business and Property Registration Agency (BPRA), the official authority responsible for intellectual property rights in Zanzibar.
- Key Differences: Zanzibar vs Mainland Tanzania
| Feature | Zanzibar (BPRA) | Mainland Tanzania (BRELA) |
| Governing Law | Zanzibar Industrial Property Act, 2008 | Trade and Service Marks Act [Cap. 326] |
| Registration Authority | BPRA | Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA) |
| Filing Method | Physical filing (via local agent) | Online via BRELA ORS |
| Initial Protection | 10 years from filing | 7 years from filing |
| Renewal Period | 10 years | 10 years |
| Opposition Period | 60 days (Government Gazette) | 60 days (Official Journal) |
| Service Marks | Fully recognized | Fully recognized |
Zanzibar offers a longer initial protection period (10 years) compared to Mainland Tanzania (7 years), making it strategically important for long-term brand protection.
- Trademark Registration Process in Zanzibar (BPRA)
The registration process follows standard international practice:
- Trademark Search (Recommended)
An official search is conducted at BPRA to identify any conflicting marks.
- Filing the Application
Applications are filed physically through a licensed local agent.
Zanzibar operates a single-class system, meaning:
- One application = One class
- Examination
The Registrar examines the application to ensure compliance with the law.
The trademark must:
- Be distinctive
- Not be descriptive or misleading
- Not in conflict with existing marks
- Publication
Accepted trademarks are published in the Government Gazette for public review.
Duration: 60 days
- Opposition Period
Any third party may oppose the application within 60 days.
If opposition arises:
- Evidence is submitted
- Hearings may be conducted
Duration: 60+ days (if contested)
- Registration and Certification
If unopposed (or successfully defended):
- Final fees are paid
- A Certificate of Registration is issued
- Required Documents for Trademark Registration
To file a trademark application in Zanzibar, you will need:
- Trademark Representation
(Clear image/logo/word mark) - Applicant Details
(Name, address, nationality) - Goods/Services Specification
(According to the Nice Classification) - Power of Attorney
(Simple signed copy; no notarization required) - Translation (if applicable)
For marks not in English or Swahili
- Strategic Importance of Zanzibar Trademark Registration
Registering your trademark in Zanzibar ensures:
- Full territorial protection within Tanzania
- Legal enforcement rights within Zanzibar
- Protection against counterfeiting and infringement
- Stronger brand positioning in tourism and trade sectors
Without Zanzibar registration, your brand remains unprotected in that jurisdiction, even if registered in Mainland Tanzania.
- Conclusion
Trademark registration in Zanzibar is a critical step for comprehensive brand protection in Tanzania.
Given the separate legal framework and independent administration by BPRA, businesses must adopt a dual registration strategy (Mainland + Zanzibar) to secure full nationwide rights.
Should you require assistance, kindly reach out to our team directly at www.gerpatsolutions.co.tz info@gerpatsolutions.co.tz, Mob: +255 742 826 955