EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TRADEMARKS IN SOMALIA

July 16, 2024

ABISOM IP & LAW FIRM is pleased to provide a comprehensive guide to trademark registration in Somalia. This guide outlines the essential steps, requirements, and regulations for both domestic and foreign applicants. Whether you're a local business or an international company looking to protect your brand in Somalia, this guide will help you navigate the trademark registration process efficiently.

Introduction: Evolution of Intellectual Property in Somalia

The Somali Intellectual Property Office (SIPO) resumed operations in early 2021, following a hiatus of nearly three decades. This revival was initiated by Ministerial Decree 1 of 2019, marking a significant milestone in Somalia's journey towards rebuilding its legal and economic infrastructure. The re-establishment of SIPO signifies a promising opportunity for trademark registrations and protections, aligning Somalia with international IP standards and practices.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry's Industrial Development Department publishes the Somali Industrial Property Journal every month. This publication is mandated under Trade Mark Law No. 3 of January 22, 1955, as amended by Law No. 33 of January 18, 1975, and Law No. 3 of December 1987. The journal serves as a monthly publication by the Ministry to support the protection of industrial property rights. For further information about the journals you can access our website https://abisomip.com/tag/ip-gazettes  

TRADEMARK REGISTRATION PROCEDURE IN SOMALIA

Step 1: Preliminary Search

Before applying for a trademark, it's essential to conduct a thorough search to ensure the trademark is not already registered. This helps avoid potential conflicts and legal issues.

Step 2: Application Submission

Submit the trademark application along with the required application documents. The application must include:

• The proposed trademark,
• The class of goods or services,
• The applicant's profile, including address,
• Applicant’s certificate of business incorporation, and business license,
• The trademark registration certificate from the original country,
• Declaration letter,
• For foreign companies, a Power of Attorney is required,
• Application letter.

Step 3: Examination

The Intellectual Property Office will examine the application to ensure it meets the registration criteria and does not conflict with existing trademarks.

Step 4: Publication

If the application passes the examination, it will be advertised in the local Gazette and on the IP website for 45 days. This period allows for any objections to be raised.

Step 5: Submission of Forms

After the publication period, if no opposition is filed, the applicant must submit Form One and Form Two, which are the verification and payment forms. This step is crucial for the final approval process.

Step 6: Issuance of Certificate

Upon verification of the forms and receipt of the payment, the Registrar will register the trademark and issue a Certificate of Registration.

Trademark Validity and Renewal

A registered trademark in Somalia is valid for ten years from the filing date. It can be renewed indefinitely for successive ten-year periods, ensuring long-term protection for your brand.

ELIGIBILITY AND REPRESENTATION

Who Can Apply?

Any individual or corporation owning a mark used or intended to be used in Somalia can apply for trademark registration.

Appointing an Agent

Applications can be filed through authorized agents in Somalia. Agents must have a Power of Attorney to act on behalf of the trademark owner.

Additional Information

For more detailed information, you can directly contact our partners or through our email info@abisomip.com . We are happy to assist you.

WHY CHOOSE ABISOM IP & LAW FIRM?

ABISOM IP & LAW FIRM is the leading IP service provider in Somalia. We can help you proceed and secure your intellectual property effectively. Our services include:

• Assisting with the preparation of all required documents,
• Guiding you through each step of the registration process,
• Offering our expertise at a very low cost to ensure accessibility and affordability,
• Offering anything related to trademarks.

Trust us to safeguard your brand and business interests in Somalia.

Contact Us

If you need further assistance or have any questions regarding trademark registration in Somalia, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@abisomip.com .

Our team at ABISOM IP & LAW FIRM is here to provide you with expert guidance and support.

ABISOM IP & LAW FIRM is dedicated to helping you protect your intellectual property rights effectively.

Trust us to safeguard your brand and business interests in Somalia.