Intellectual Property lawyers in Tanzania (AF)

When hiring an intellectual property lawyer in Tanzania, look for these key qualifications:

• Law degree from a recognized institution like the University of Dar es Salaam
• Registration with the Tanganyika Law Society
• Specialized training in intellectual property law
• Experience handling cases before BRELA (Business Registration and Licensing Agency)
• Knowledge of ARIPO procedures for regional protection
• Understanding of international IP treaties applicable to Tanzania

Many qualified attorneys in Tanzania also have international certifications or additional training in specific areas like patent drafting or trademark opposition proceedings.

Trademark registration costs in Tanzania include:

• Official filing fees: approximately 50,000-100,000 TZS per class
• Attorney fees: typically range from $300-700 USD
• Search fees: 20,000-40,000 TZS
• Publication fees: 15,000-30,000 TZS

Additional costs may apply for responding to official actions or handling oppositions. The total process usually takes 12-18 months if no objections arise. These fees are subject to change, so consulting with a trademark attorney in Tanzania for current pricing is advisable.

The main patent authority in Tanzania is the Registry of Patents and Companies, operating under BRELA (Business Registration and Licensing Agency). Its headquarters is located in Dar es Salaam at BRELA House, Lumumba Street. Patent applications can be filed at this office, which handles all industrial property matters including patents, utility models, and industrial designs. Tanzania is also a member of ARIPO (African Regional Intellectual Property Organization), allowing inventors to file regional patent applications through the Tanzania office that can provide protection across multiple African countries.

Local representation by a patent attorney in Tanzania is important because:

1. Tanzanian law requires foreign applicants to have local representation
2. Local attorneys understand BRELA’s specific documentation requirements
3. They can communicate effectively in Swahili and English with patent examiners
4. They understand the nuances of Tanzania’s Patent Act and regulations
5. They can conduct in-person follow-ups at the registry in Dar es Salaam
6. They provide guidance on Tanzania’s specific patentability criteria

A local patent attorney also helps navigate the connection between Tanzania’s national system and ARIPO regional protection options.

Tanzania implemented its current copyright law, the Copyright and Neighboring Rights Act, in 1999. This act replaced the previous copyright legislation from 1966. The 1999 law expanded protection to cover computer programs, audiovisual works, and neighboring rights. It established COSOTA (Copyright Society of Tanzania) as the collective management organization responsible for copyright administration. The law was further amended in 2019 to strengthen digital copyright protection and align with international standards. These updates improved enforcement mechanisms and extended the copyright term to life of the author plus 50 years.

Businesses can enforce trademarks against counterfeiters in Tanzania through:

1. Filing complaints with the Fair Competition Commission (FCC), which conducts raids and seizures
2. Working with customs authorities to block importation of counterfeit goods at ports like Dar es Salaam
3. Initiating civil litigation through the Commercial Division of the High Court
4. Filing criminal complaints with the police for counterfeiting offenses
5. Sending cease and desist letters through a trademark attorney in Tanzania

The Fair Competition Act and the Merchandise Marks Act provide the legal framework for trademark enforcement. Penalties can include fines, imprisonment, and destruction of counterfeit goods.