Overview
Zanzibar forms part of the United Republic of Tanzania and maintains its own Intellectual Property framework through a local institute, the Business and Property Registration Agency (BPRA). This structure enables the protection of trademarks, patents, and industrial designs under specific regulations separate from Mainland Tanzania.
Due to Zanzibar’s distinct administrative setup, applicants should be mindful of specific local procedures and enforcement measures. Despite operating under the broader Tanzanian legal system, Zanzibar administers registrations through its own office and processes.
International Conventions
Zanzibar, being part of the United Republic of Tanzania, is a member of:
• Paris Convention
• Berne Convention
• Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS)
• African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO)
• Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)
IP office
Trademark applications are filed with the Business and Property Registration Agency (BPRA).
• A multi-class filing system is available.
• The application must include the applicant’s full name, address, and a clear depiction of the trademark.
• Trademarks have a valid registration term of 10 years from the filing date, renewable for successive 10-year periods.
• Examination is conducted locally, and any oppositions or disputes are handled in line with Zanzibar’s trademark processes.
Patents in Zanzibar are registered through the Business and Property Registration Agency (BPRA).
• Applicants must provide details such as a complete specification, claims, and drawings.
• There is a local examination procedure, and annual renewal fees are required to maintain patent rights, up to a maximum term of 20 years.
• Zanzibar participates in the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) through Tanzania’s membership, allowing applicants to pursue international protection more efficiently.
Industrial design protection is administered by the Business and Property Registration Agency (BPRA).
• Design applications must include a representation of the design and applicant details.
• Protection is granted for an initial five-year period, with the possibility of renewals for further successive five-year intervals, up to a maximum total period of 15 years.
• Examinations consider aspects of originality and visual distinctiveness.
