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Trademark Renewal Process in Bangladesh: Step-by-Step Legal Guide (2026)
2026 updateThis article retains its original publication date. Its structure, internal navigation and general information have been refreshed for 2026; current primary sources and advice should be checked before acting on any specific matter.
Legal Information Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance on your intellectual property matters, please consult with a qualified legal professional at TRW Law Firm.
Legal Framework for Trademarks in Bangladesh
The primary legislation governing trademarks is the Trademarks Act 2009, supplemented by the Trademarks Rules 2015 [2]. In 2025, the government enacted the Trademark (Amendment) Act to align local laws with international standards, facilitating Bangladesh's readiness for the Madrid Protocol [3]. This amendment has streamlined the renewal process and introduced more robust protections for well-known marks.Under the current law, the registration of a trademark is initially valid for a period of seven (7) years from the date of application [4]. Following this initial term, the registration can be renewed indefinitely for successive periods of ten (10) years each.Key Provisions and Renewal Timelines
Proactive management of renewal timelines is essential to avoid the risk of trademark removal. The Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) oversees the registry, and owners should be aware of the following provisions:| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Initial Validity | 7 Years from the date of application. |
| Renewal Term | 10 Years per renewal. |
| Renewal Window | Applications can be filed within 6 months prior to expiry. |
| Grace Period | 6 Months after expiry (requires late fees and Form TM-17). |
| Restoration | Possible within 1 year of removal (subject to Registrar's discretion). |
1. Timely Renewal
A trademark owner should ideally file for renewal within the six months preceding the expiration date. The Registrar typically sends a notice (Form O-3) to the registered proprietor or their agent before the expiration, but the responsibility for renewal remains with the owner.2. The Grace Period and Form TM-17
If the renewal deadline is missed, the Trademarks Act 2009 allows for a six-month grace period [5]. During this time, the trademark can still be renewed by filing Form TM-12 along with the prescribed renewal fee. Crucially, the applicant must also submit Form TM-17 to pay the mandatory late surcharge for the surcharge to be legally recognized [6].Step-by-Step Trademark Renewal Process
The 2026 renewal process has been significantly enhanced by the DPDT Online Filing System, which allows for faster processing and digital tracking.Step 1: Preparation and Documentation
Before filing, ensure you have the following details ready:- Trademark registration number and class.
- Copy of the original registration certificate.
- Power of Attorney (if filing through a legal representative).
- Proof of continued use (while not strictly mandatory for renewal, it is highly recommended to safeguard against non-use cancellation actions).
Step 2: Filing Form TM-12
The renewal application is submitted using Form TM-12. With the 2025 updates, most applications are now processed through the IPAS portal [1]. The application must state the current status of the mark and confirm the proprietor's intent to continue using the trademark in Bangladesh.Step 3: Payment of Statutory Fees
The fee structure in 2026 includes [7]:- Standard Renewal Fee: Tk 20,000 per class.
- Late Surcharge (Form TM-17): Tk 5,000.
- Restoration Fee (if applicable): Tk 2,000.
Step 4: Examination and Publication
The Registrar examines the application to ensure compliance. If the renewal involves changes to the proprietor's details or the mark itself (within permissible limits), it may be published in the Trademarks Journal for opposition. If no changes are made, the renewal is typically processed directly.Step 5: Issuance of Renewal Certificate
Upon successful verification and payment, the DPDT issues a Renewal Certificate. This document serves as legal proof that the trademark's validity has been extended for another ten years.Recent Developments (2025-2026)
The landscape of intellectual property in Bangladesh is evolving rapidly. Key developments include:- Madrid Protocol Readiness: The 2025 Amendment Act has paved the way for international registrations, making it easier for Bangladeshi brands to seek protection abroad [3].
- Digital Transformation: The transition to a fully paperless filing system has reduced the average renewal processing time from several months to just a few weeks.
- Stricter Enforcement: The 2025 updates have empowered the DPDT to take more proactive measures against "zombie" trademarks—marks that are renewed but never used [3].
Common Pitfalls in Trademark Renewal
Even established businesses often make mistakes that lead to the loss of their trademark rights:- Missing the Grace Period: Failing to renew even within the six-month grace period leads to the mark being "Removed" from the register. While restoration is possible, it is not guaranteed and is more costly.
- Incorrect Proprietor Details: If the company has changed its name or address and these changes were not recorded with the DPDT, the renewal application may be rejected.
- Non-Use Vulnerability: Renewing a mark that has not been used for over five years makes it vulnerable to cancellation petitions by third parties.
How TRW Law Firm Can Assist
Navigating the complexities of the trademark renewal process in Bangladesh requires technical expertise and diligent monitoring. TRW Law Firm (Tahmidur Rahman Remura Wahid) provides end-to-end support for intellectual property management, including:- Portfolio Monitoring: We track all renewal deadlines to ensure no mark ever lapses.
- Recordal of Changes: Assisting with assignments, mergers, and name changes prior to renewal.
- Online Filing Excellence: Leveraging the latest DPDT digital tools for efficient application processing.
- Dispute Resolution: Handling oppositions or restoration hearings before the Registrar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does a trademark registration last in Bangladesh?
Initially, a trademark is registered for 7 years from the date of application. After the first 7 years, it must be renewed every 10 years to remain valid [4].Q: Is there a grace period for late renewal?
Yes, there is a 6-month grace period after the expiration date. However, filing during this period requires the payment of a Tk 5,000 late surcharge using Form TM-17 in addition to the standard renewal fee [5] [6].Q: What happens if my trademark is removed from the register?
If you miss both the renewal deadline and the grace period, the mark is removed. You can apply for "Restoration" within one year of the expiration date, but this is subject to the Registrar's approval and higher fees [5].Q: Can I renew a trademark online in 2026?
Yes, the DPDT now supports online filing through the IPAS system, which is the preferred method for renewals in 2026 to ensure faster processing [1].Contact TRW Law Firm
For professional assistance with your trademark renewals or to audit your intellectual property portfolio, please contact our specialized IP team at TRW Law Firm.Email: info@trw.orgWeb: Our Practices | Contact UsReferences
[1] Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) Official Portal[2] WIPO Lex: Trademarks Act 2009 of Bangladesh
[3] The Business Standard: Madrid Protocol and Trademark Amendment Act 2025
[4] Laws of Bangladesh: Trademarks Act 2009
[5] Justice Corner: Trademark Renewal Guide
[6] Supreme IP: Trademark Renewal in Bangladesh
[7] JK Associates: Trademark Fees in Bangladesh
[8] LinkedIn: FAQs on Trademark Registration in Bangladesh
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