Pakistan’s economy, driven by textiles, leather goods, and agriculture-based products, presents significant opportunities in a competitive market. Protecting intellectual property (IP) is critical to stand out, combat counterfeiting, and maintain brand credibility in a landscape with evolving enforcement mechanisms. Our firm provides expert IP services to safeguard your trademarks and inventions in Pakistan.

Trademarks

Trademark protection in Pakistan is governed by the Trade Marks Ordinance, 2001, administered by the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan), specifically the Trade Marks Registry in Karachi. Pakistan is a member of the Paris Convention, TRIPS Agreement, and Madrid Protocol (since 2021).

Trademark Registration Process

Securing a trademark in Pakistan involves a streamlined process. The key steps include:

1. Trademark Search: Conduct a search through IPO-Pakistan’s registry to ensure a similar mark is not already applied for registration/ registered.

2. Filing the Application: Submit the trademark application to IPO-Pakistan, providing details such as the mark, the class of goods/services (based on the Nice Classification), and applicant information. Applications are filed for a single class, and multi-class applications are not permitted.

3. Examination: IPO-Pakistan examines the application for distinctiveness and non-conflict with existing marks, typically within 10-12 months.

4. Publication: Approved marks are published in the Trademark Journal, allowing a two-month opposition period.

5. Opposition Period: During the two-month window, third parties can challenge the registration if they believe it infringes their rights.

6. Registration: If no opposition is filed or it is resolved in your favor, the trademark is registered, and a certificate is issued.

The entire process typically takes 12-18 months, depending on oppositions or delays. Our firm ensures a seamless registration experience.

Patents

Patent protection in Pakistan is governed by the Patents Ordinance, 2000, amended in 2002, administered by the Patent Office under the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan). Pakistan is a member of the Paris Convention and TRIPS Agreement but not

the PCT, requiring direct local filings.

● Patentable Subject Matter: Inventions that are novel, involve an inventive step, and are industrially applicable are patentable. Exclusions include discoveries, scientific theories, mathematical methods, and inventions contrary to public order or morality.

● Patent Types: The law covers utility patents and industrial designs. Utility models are not available, and plant varieties are protected under separate legislation.

● Duration: Patents are protected for 20 years from the filing date and are non- renewable.

● Examination Process: The Patent Office conducts formal and substantive examinations, focusing on novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability. Delays may occur due to administrative backlog.

● International Considerations: Without PCT membership, foreign applicants must file directly with IPO-Pakistan. Priority claims based on Paris Convention filings (within 12 months) are recognized.

Contact Us

Ready to protect your IP in Pakistan? Contact us today for a consultation with our expert IP team. Let us help you secure your brand and inventions in this dynamic market.