Trademark Registration in Bangladesh: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Protect your brand identity from counterfeits. Secure your exclusive legal rights to your business name, logo, or slogan with the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT).
What is a Trademark?
A trademark is a recognizable word, phrase, symbol, or design that distinguishes your goods or services from competitors in the market. Whether you are launching a new startup, a clothing brand, or a tech service, a registered trademark prevents others from legally copying your brand identity.
Why Register Your Trademark in Bangladesh?
While common law rights exist, an unregistered trademark is incredibly difficult and expensive to defend in court. Registering your trademark under the Trademarks Act, 2009 provides:
Exclusive Rights
Total legal ownership of the brand across the entirety of Bangladesh.
Brand Protection
Prevents unauthorized use, counterfeiting, and corporate brand hijacking.
Asset Creation
A registered TM is an intangible asset that can be franchised, licensed, or sold.
Trust & Credibility
Enhances your brand's reputation and trust among consumers and investors.
Governing Authority and Laws
In Bangladesh, trademark registration is officially administered by the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) under the Ministry of Industries. The process is strictly governed by:
- The Trademarks Act, 2009
- The Trademarks Rules, 2015
Bangladesh also follows the NICE Classification, categorizing goods and services into 45 distinct international classes.
Required Documents for Registration
To successfully file a trademark application with the DPDT, you must prepare the following documentation:
- Name and Address of the applicant (Individual, Partnership, or Limited Company).
- Trade License or Certificate of Incorporation (for companies).
- NID / Passport copy of the applicant or managing director.
- Logo / Mark: High-resolution digital copy of the logo, wordmark, or device.
- TM-10 (Power of Attorney): An authorization document allowing your trademark attorney to act on your behalf.
- Description of Goods/Services: Required to determine the correct NICE classification (Classes 1 to 45).
The Step-by-Step Registration Process
The total time for processing a trademark application in Bangladesh can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on DPDT backlogs and potential oppositions. Here is the exact roadmap:
Trademark Search (Clearance)
Before filing, a trademark professional conducts a comprehensive search in the DPDT database to ensure your desired mark is not already registered or pending. This prevents rejection based on "likelihood of confusion."
Filing the Application (TM-1)
Once cleared, we file Form TM-1 with the required documents and government fees. You receive an official filing receipt with your Trademark Application Number. You can legally use the "™" symbol from this point.
Examination by the DPDT
The Trademark Registrar examines the application for distinctiveness and conflicts. If objections arise, a Show Cause notice is issued, and your attorney must file a legal response or attend a hearing.
Publication in Trademark Journal
If the Registrar is satisfied, the mark is accepted and published in the monthly Trade Marks Journal of Bangladesh to notify the public.
Opposition Period
Once published, the public has two (2) months (extendable) to file an opposition against your mark. If no opposition is filed, the application moves to the final certification stage.
Issuance of Registration Certificate
Upon payment of the final certification fee, the DPDT issues the original Trademark Registration Certificate. You can now proudly use the "®" symbol.
Trademark Registration for Foreign Companies
Protecting International Brands in Bangladesh
Foreign entities and international brands cannot directly file a trademark application with the DPDT unless they have a registered corporate office in Bangladesh. To protect your intellectual property, you must appoint a local, authorized legal representative.
The Role of Power of Attorney (Form TM-10)
To authorize a local attorney, the foreign company must execute a Power of Attorney (Form TM-10). This critical document grants your local legal counsel the authority to file applications, respond to DPDT show-cause notices, and represent your brand in legal opposition hearings. It must be duly signed by an authorized signatory of the foreign entity.
How LegalSeba LLP Can Help:
- Local Legal Representation: LegalSeba LLP acts as your official registered trademark agent and legal address for service in Bangladesh.
- Drafting & Compliance: We draft the TM-10 and ensure all supporting documents (like certificates of incorporation) meet Bangladesh's specific regulatory standards.
- End-to-End Processing: We manage everything from the initial clearance search to securing the final physical certificate and securely shipping it to your international headquarters.
Validity and Renewal
In Bangladesh, a trademark is initially registered for a period of 7 years from the date of application. After that, it must be renewed indefinitely for consecutive periods of 10 years by filing a renewal application and paying the requisite government fees before expiration.
Trademark Classes & Government Fees
Bangladesh adheres to the international NICE Classification system. You must register your trademark under specific classes that match your business activities. Filing in the wrong class can result in immediate rejection by the DPDT.
| Popular Classes in BD | Industry / Products Covered |
|---|---|
| Class 9 | Software, Mobile Apps, Electronics, Tech Startups |
| Class 25 | Clothing, Footwear, RMG Brands, Headgear |
| Class 35 | E-commerce, Retail Services, Business Management |
| Class 41 | Education, Training, Entertainment, Online Courses |
| Class 43 | Restaurants, Food Delivery Services, Hotels, Cafes |
Note on Fees: DPDT charges official government fees at two primary stages: Filing (Form TM-1) and Certification (Form TM-11). Fees are charged per class. For a detailed breakdown including our professional attorney fees, please contact our support team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I trademark a name globally from Bangladesh?
What cannot be trademarked in Bangladesh?
How much does trademark registration cost?
Ready to Protect Your Intellectual Property?
Don't leave your brand vulnerable to copycats. Secure your trademark today with Bangladesh's top IP lawyers. Fast, transparent, and hassle-free registration.
