Registering a trademark with the FIPO (Fiji Intellectual Property Office) takes about 12–18 months if there are no oppositions or errors in the application. Complex cases may take up to 24 months.
The deadline for filing an opposition is 3 months from the publication of the application in the Fiji Government Gazette or another official FIPO publication.
In Fiji, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, and three-dimensional marks, provided they are distinctive. Marks contrary to public morality, national interests, or state symbols are prohibited.
The certificate is valid for 14 years from the registration date and can be renewed indefinitely every 14 years.
The owner has the exclusive right to use the mark commercially in Fiji, prohibit others from using similar marks, and transfer or license the trademark rights.
The filing fee is approximately $200–400 for one class of goods/services, including registration and publication fees. Additional costs may include legal services or fees for extra classes.
No, use is not mandatory, but non-use for 5 consecutive years after registration may lead to cancellation upon third-party request.
If the trademark is not renewed within 14 years from the registration date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 6 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
Registering a trademark in Fiji not only offers legal protection but also enhances your brand's credibility in the Pacific region. This guide provides an in-depth overview of the trademark registration process in Fiji, highlighting key considerations and how ProfitMark can assist you throughout.
1. Exclusive Rights
A registered trademark grants you the exclusive right to use your brand's name or logo in Fiji, preventing unauthorized use by others.
2. Legal Protection
Registration provides a legal framework to address infringements, allowing you to take action against counterfeiters and unauthorized users.
3. Brand Value Enhancement
A registered trademark adds value to your business, making it more attractive to investors and partners.
4. Licensing and Franchising Opportunities
With a registered trademark, you can license your brand or expand through franchising, opening new revenue streams.
5. Competitive Advantage
Registration deters competitors from imitating your brand, ensuring your unique identity in the market.
Fiji's trademark laws are based on the British Trade Marks Act of 1933. Notably, Fiji does not adhere to the Nice Classification system and does not recognize service marks. Instead, it uses the old British classification system for goods.
1. Preliminary Search
Conduct a manual search at the Fiji Trade Marks Registry to ensure your desired trademark isn't already registered.
2. Application Submission
Submit your application to the Intellectual Property Office of Fiji (FIPO), including:
Original authorization of agent
Applicant's details
Specification of goods
Twenty (20) prints of the mark (if not a word mark)
Information sheet
3. Examination
FIPO examines the application for compliance with legal requirements.
4. Publication
If approved, the application is published in the Fiji Government Gazette, allowing a 3-month opposition period.
5. Registration
If no opposition arises, or any opposition is resolved in your favor, FIPO registers the trademark and issues a certificate.
Validity Period: Registered trademarks are valid for 14 years from the application date and can be renewed indefinitely.
Non-Use Cancellation: If a trademark isn't used within five years of registration, it may be subject to cancellation.
UK-Based Applications: Fiji allows registration based on existing UK trademarks, often expediting the process.
ProfitMark offers end-to-end assistance, from preliminary searches to obtaining your registration certificate.
Our team conducts thorough searches to ensure your trademark's uniqueness and advises on the best classification.
We handle all documentation and submissions, eliminating the need for your physical presence in Fiji.
In case of objections or oppositions, ProfitMark provides legal support to defend your application.
Our services come with clear, fixed fees and defined timelines, ensuring no hidden costs.
Experience: Over 13 years in trademark registration across more than 30 countries.
Global Expertise: A team of international professionals well-versed in various jurisdictions.
Client-Centric Approach: Tailored services to meet individual client needs.
Online Services: Complete processes handled remotely for your convenience.
Quality Assurance: Commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable services.
Securing your brand in Fiji is a strategic move to protect and enhance your business in the Pacific region. With ProfitMark's expertise, the trademark registration process becomes straightforward and efficient. Contact us today to safeguard your brand's future in Fiji.