Maldives Adopts First Comprehensive Trademark Legislation: 12-Month Transition Period for Brand Owners

On 11 November 2025, the President of the Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, ratified the Trademark Bill. Following ratification, the Trademark Act (Law No. 19/2025) was published in the Government Gazette. It will enter into force 12 months from the date of publication, i.e., on 11 November 2026, with a further 12‑month period thereafter for existing owners to re‑register their marks. This marks the introduction of the country’s first comprehensive, registration‑based system of trademark protection, replacing the long‑standing practice of relying on cautionary notices. The official press release can be accessed here.

Maldives’ First Trademark Act: 12‑Month Countdown for Brand Owners

• First‑to‑file regime: Ownership will be determined primarily on the basis of the filing date, with examination on both absolute and relative grounds, and specific protection afforded to well‑known marks.

• Term and renewal: Registrations will be valid for 10 years from the filing or registration date and will be renewable for successive 10‑year periods.

• Transition for existing owners: Proprietors currently relying on cautionary notices will be required to file applications for registration within 12 months of the Act’s effective date to preserve continuity of protection.

• Enforcement tools: Rights holders will have access to civil remedies (including injunctive relief, damages, and destruction or withdrawal of infringing goods), criminal sanctions for counterfeiting, and customs border measures.

• Regulatory roadmap: The competent authorities will be required to prepare and publish the necessary implementing regulations and guidelines in the Government Gazette within six months from the date on which the Act comes into force.

Action plan for businesses:

• Review your trademark portfolio and identify marks currently protected by cautionary notices.

• Prepare to file registration applications within the 12‑month transition window opening on November 11, 2026, to ensure continuity of protection.

• Consider updating internal processes to align with the new regime, including enforcement and portfolio management.

We will continue to monitor the implementation of the new regime. We will keep you apprised of further developments well before November 2026 so that you may prepare and file applications immediately upon the start of the new regime. Should you require any additional information or wish to discuss the implications for your trademark portfolio, please contact Ms. Sonal Madan at sonal.madan@iprattorneys.com.

Sonal Madan

Partner

sonal.madan@iprattorneys.com