TRW Knowledge / Intellectual property
Renewing Trademarks in Bangladesh: A Practical 2026 Guide
Renewing a registered trademark in Bangladesh is a routine but legally important process that helps preserve proprietary rights in a sign, logo, or brand. This article explains the legal framework, procedural steps, supporting documentation, common issues to watch for, and practical considerations as of 2026. The text is explanatory and not a substitute for case-specific legal advice; co
TRW Knowledge / Legal guidance
Intellectual property and brand protection / Bangladesh
2026 reviewThis article retains its original publication date. It has been structurally and substantively refreshed for 2026; readers should verify current rules, court practice and primary materials before acting on a particular matter.
Introduction
Renewing a registered trademark in Bangladesh is a routine but legally important process that helps preserve proprietary rights in a sign, logo, or brand. This article explains the legal framework, procedural steps, supporting documentation, common issues to watch for, and practical considerations as of 2026. The text is explanatory and not a substitute for case-specific legal advice; consider consulting a qualified adviser for particular circumstances.Legal framework and authorities
Trademark registration and renewal in Bangladesh are governed primarily by the Trade Marks Act, 2009 and the Trade Marks Rules, 2009, together with the administrative practices of the Directorate of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT). The DPDT is the office responsible for maintaining the national trademark register and processing renewals. For official forms, filing guidance and procedural updates, consult the DPDT website: https://dpdt.gov.bd/. The references to legislation and the DPDT in this article are explanatory; verify statutory provisions and procedural rules with authoritative sources or a qualified adviser before acting.Basic renewal principles
Key legal features that typically govern trademark renewal in Bangladesh include the following principles (stated generally):- A registered trademark has a registration term measured from its date of registration. Under the statutory framework enacted in 2009, renewal is normally available for successive terms following the initial registration period.
- Renewal is an administrative process conducted through the DPDT and requires submission of an application and payment of the prescribed fee.
- Non-use of a registered mark for a continuous period may expose the registration to cancellation, even if a renewal is filed. The statutory framework provides for cancellation motions based on non-use after a specified period.
- Procedural timelines, filing windows, and fee schedules are established in the Trade Marks Rules and by the DPDT; these details should be checked with the DPDT or an adviser because administrative practice and online filing facilities may change.
2026 update
Since 2024, the DPDT has continued to develop online filing capabilities and to publish guidance intended to streamline registration and renewal administration. By 2026, users should expect further incremental changes in filing interfaces and administrative practice. Where specific procedural steps or deadlines are time-sensitive, consult the DPDT website (https://dpdt.gov.bd/) or a qualified practitioner to confirm current requirements, fees and acceptable evidence of use.When to start the renewal process
To reduce the risk of inadvertent lapse, begin planning a renewal well before the registration expiry date. Under the statutory scheme, a renewal application is typically due within a prescribed window immediately prior to expiry. Practitioners commonly recommend checking the register and calendarising the renewal deadline at least six months in advance to allow time to assemble documentation and to address any questions that the DPDT may raise. If you are operating through an agent, ensure that the agent has been authorised to act and that contact details on the register are up to date.Who can file a renewal application
The renewal application is usually filed by the registered proprietor or an authorised agent acting on the proprietor’s behalf. Where ownership of a registration has changed since the original filing, ownership should be updated on the register before or at the time of renewal to ensure the renewal is recorded in the correct name. For transfers, assignments or changes of name, follow the DPDT’s procedures for recording such changes.Required documents and evidence
Typical documentary material associated with a renewal application may include:- A copy of the registration certificate or registration details sufficient to identify the registration number and registration date.
- A completed renewal application form as prescribed by the DPDT.
- Evidence of payment of the prescribed renewal fee.
- Where relevant, evidence of use of the mark in commerce may be requested or required by an adversary during cancellation proceedings; keep records of distribution, advertising, invoices, packaging, website screenshots and other materials documenting bona fide use in the classes covered by the registration.
Step-by-step renewal process (practical guide)
- Check the register and calculate deadlines: Verify the registration date and the expiry date recorded with the DPDT. Make a note of the earliest date you can file and the last date for on-time filing under the applicable rules.
- Confirm proprietorship and contact details: Ensure the name and address of the proprietor on the register are correct and that any agent files are authorised to act for renewal.
- Gather documentation: Assemble the registration certificate, any power of attorney or agent authorisations, and files evidencing use if available.
- Complete the renewal form: Use the DPDT-approved renewal application form. If the DPDT accepts online filing, consider the online route to obtain immediate filing receipts.
- Pay the fee: Pay the prescribed renewal fee in the manner accepted by the DPDT. Fee schedules and accepted payment methods are determined by the DPDT and may vary by class.
- Submit the application: File the application and retain proof of filing (electronic acknowledgement or official receipt). If filing through an agent, obtain a copy of the submission confirmation.
- Monitor application progress: After filing, monitor the application for any official actions or requests for clarification from the DPDT and respond promptly.
- Maintain evidence of use: Retain sales records, marketing materials and distribution data demonstrating use of the mark in association with the registered goods or services, in case of third-party challenges based on non-use.
Fees and payment
The DPDT prescribes renewal fees and the payment methods it accepts. Fees can vary depending on the number of classes and whether the applicant chooses electronic or paper filing, where such distinctions exist. The article does not set out a fee schedule. Check the DPDT website or consult a qualified adviser for current fee amounts and payment procedures before submitting an application.Non-use and cancellation risks
Under the statutory framework, registrations that have not been used for an uninterrupted period may be vulnerable to cancellation on grounds of non-use. Filing a renewal application does not, in itself, avoid a cancellation action if the mark has not been genuinely used in the relevant territory for the period specified in the statute. If your mark has not been used for a substantial period, consider whether you can demonstrate the existence of genuine use or valid reasons for non-use. Seek advice about the type of evidence likely to be persuasive in the DPDT or in court proceedings.Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Common issues that can delay or jeopardise a renewal include:- Missed deadlines: Failing to file within the required window can result in loss of rights. Keep a proactive calendar and consider electronic reminders.
- Incomplete or incorrect applications: Ensure all required fields are completed and that the registration number and proprietor details are accurate.
- Insufficient evidence of use: If there is a risk of a non-use challenge, prepare and retain documentary evidence of genuine use reflecting the goods or services as registered.
- Change of ownership not recorded: If ownership has changed, update the register to reflect the current proprietor before or when applying for renewal.
- Relying on outdated procedural instructions: Administrative processes and online portals evolve; verify current DPDT filing procedures prior to submission.
What if you miss the renewal deadline?
Consequences of a missed deadline depend on the statutory regime and administrative practice. Some systems provide limited remedies or restoration procedures subject to payment of additional fees and demonstration of reasons for the delay. Others may require a new application that will be treated as a fresh filing, with attendant risks including loss of priority and intervening rights of third parties. Because restoration options and their conditions are time-sensitive and fact-specific, consult the DPDT and a qualified adviser promptly if you believe you may have missed a deadline.International and multi-jurisdictional considerations
If your brand is also registered outside Bangladesh, align renewal calendars across jurisdictions to reduce administrative burden. Note that renewal in Bangladesh is separate from international trademark systems such as the Madrid Protocol; Bangladesh’s participation or relevant interaction with international systems should be confirmed with current DPDT guidance and counsel. Do not assume that renewal in another jurisdiction will affect the status of the Bangladesh registration.Using agents and third-party providers
Many proprietors use professional agents to handle renewals. If you engage a third-party provider, verify their authority to act, obtain written confirmation of instructions, and ensure you receive copies of all filings and receipts. Retain originals or certified copies of any documents that record ownership changes or agent appointments. The register should list contact details for official correspondence; confirm those details are current.Dispute scenarios during or after renewal
Third parties may oppose or challenge a renewal on various grounds, including non-use, prior rights, or bad faith. If you receive a notice of opposition or cancellation, preserve evidence of use and seek legal advice promptly to ascertain available responses and timeline constraints. The DPDT’s procedures will set time limits for responses and potential appeals; adhere to those deadlines.Record-keeping and internal controls
Implement a system to track registrations, renewal dates, evidence of use and correspondence with agents and the DPDT. Internal controls should flag upcoming renewals, confirm fee payments, and retain marketing and sales materials that substantiate use. Good record-keeping reduces the risk of inadvertent lapses and strengthens responses to third-party challenges.How TRW Law Firm can assist
TRW Law Firm can assist clients with administrative aspects of trademark renewal, such as verifying registration details, preparing renewal applications, filing with the DPDT (including via any available electronic channels), and maintaining renewal records. The firm can also advise on evidentiary approaches to demonstrate use and represent clients in proceedings that arise during or after renewal. This description of available assistance is informational; contact the firm or another qualified adviser for tailored guidance specific to your circumstances. See TRW’s practice information here: https://trw.org/our-practices/ and firm details at https://trw.org/our-firm/. For service options and contact channels use https://trw.org/services/ and https://trw.org/contact/.Practical checklist before filing
- Confirm registration number and expiry date on the DPDT register.
- Ensure proprietor name and address on the register are current.
- Assemble the registration certificate and agent authorisations.
- Collect evidence of use (invoices, packaging images, advertising, website captures).
- Confirm current DPDT renewal fee and acceptable payment methods.
- Decide whether to file electronically (if available) or by paper.
- Schedule follow-up to monitor the DPDT file and respond to enquiries.
Practical examples of acceptable evidence of use
Acceptable proof of use typically documents the mark in the marketplace in relation to the registered goods or services. Such examples may include:- Photographs of labelled goods or packaging bearing the mark.
- Invoices and delivery notes showing sales of goods under the mark.
- Contracts or distribution agreements demonstrating commercial exploitation.
- Advertising material, brochures or website screenshots that show the mark and relate to the goods or services listed in the registration.
When to seek tailored legal advice
Consider obtaining context-specific legal advice when any of the following apply:- The mark has not been used for a prolonged period and you are concerned about non-use cancellation.
- There has been a change in ownership, corporate restructuring, or insolvency of the registered proprietor.
- You have received a third-party notice or a cancellation/invalidity proceeding is pending.
- There is uncertainty about the goods and services scope in your registration relative to marketplace use.
- You require coordinated renewal strategy across multiple jurisdictions.
Five practical FAQs
Q: How often do I need to renew my trademark in Bangladesh?
A: A registered trademark must be renewed at the end of each statutory registration term; renewals are typically for successive terms. Check the DPDT record for the registration term and the renewal window, and begin preparations well in advance of the expiry date.Q: What documents are required for renewing a trademark?
A: Commonly required documents include the registration certificate or registration details, a completed renewal application form, proof of fee payment, and, where relevant, evidence of use. Additional documentation may be needed in special circumstances, such as recorded assignments or changes of name.Q: What happens if I miss the renewal deadline?
A: If you miss the renewal deadline, you may lose the registration or need to pursue restoration or revival procedures where available; the availability and conditions for such remedies are fact-specific and depend on DPDT rules. Seek immediate advice and consult the DPDT for applicable remedies.Q: Can I renew a trademark that is not in use?
A: You can generally submit a renewal application even if the mark is not currently used, but a registration that has not been genuinely used for the statutory non-use period may be vulnerable to cancellation. Consider evidence to demonstrate use or valid reasons for non-use and seek advice tailored to your situation.Q: How can I ensure that my trademark remains protected?
A: To protect a trademark, monitor renewal dates, maintain and preserve evidence of use, respond promptly to official or third-party notices, and obtain professional advice when ownership or marketplace circumstances change.Further resources
Authoritative sources for statutory text, forms and administrative guidance include the DPDT website at https://dpdt.gov.bd/ and the published Trade Marks Act, 2009 and Trade Marks Rules, 2009. For practical assistance with renewals, record-keeping and responses to cancellation actions, consult a qualified adviser or a legal team with expertise in intellectual property.Contact and next steps
If you would like assistance organising a renewal, discussing evidence of use or reviewing a renewal strategy, you may enquire via TRW’s contact channels at https://trw.org/contact/. For information on related services, see https://trw.org/services/ and practice information at https://trw.org/our-practices/. For financial and regulatory intersections that may affect rights management, TRW’s financial services and tax practice information can be found at https://trw.org/financial-services-regulatory-lawyers/ and https://trw.org/tax-lawyers/, respectively. For arbitration-related questions that arise in disputes, see https://trw.org/leading-arbitration-lawyer/.Book a meeting to discuss your specific case: Book consultation or email info@trw.org. Please provide registration details and relevant documents when requesting tailored advice.Bring the facts.
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For a focused discussion about a dispute, regulatory issue or procedural question, speak with TRW Law Firm. General information on this page is not legal advice.