Registering a trademark with the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) takes about 6–12 months if there are no oppositions or errors in the application. Complex cases may take up to 18 months.
The deadline for filing an opposition is 2 months from the publication of the application in the Boletim Oficial de Macau (official gazette).
In Macao, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, three-dimensional marks, and sound marks, provided they are distinctive. Marks contrary to public morality, state symbols, or laws are prohibited.
The certificate is valid for 7 years from the registration date and can be renewed indefinitely every 7 years.
The owner has the exclusive right to use the mark commercially in Macao, 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, as per Article 211 of the Industrial Property Code.
If the trademark is not renewed within 7 years from the registration date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 6 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
Macao, a dynamic Special Administrative Region of China, offers a unique and promising market for businesses aiming to expand in Asia. Registering your trademark in Macao not only ensures legal protection but also enhances your brand's credibility and value.
Macao operates on a "first-to-file" principle, meaning that the first entity to register a trademark gains exclusive rights to it. Without registration, your brand is vulnerable to unauthorized use, imitation, or infringement. A registered trademark provides legal grounds to prevent others from using identical or confusingly similar marks.
By securing a registered trademark, you obtain the exclusive right to use your brand's name, logo, or symbol in connection with the goods or services for which it is registered. This exclusivity is crucial for maintaining brand identity and market position.
A registered trademark is an intangible asset that adds significant value to your business. It can increase customer trust, attract investors, and serve as a valuable asset in mergers or acquisitions.
With a registered trademark, you can license your brand to third parties or establish franchises, creating additional revenue streams and expanding your market presence.
In the event of legal disputes over brand usage, a registered trademark provides a strong legal foundation to assert your rights and seek remedies.
Before filing, it's advisable to conduct a trade mark office search to ensure your desired trademark isn't already registered or pending. This step helps avoid potential conflicts and refusals. Macao's Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) offers an online search system for this purpose.
To apply, submit the following to the DSEDT:
Applicant's name and address
Representation of the tm logo trademark
List of goods and services categorized under the Nice Classification
A notarized Power of Attorney
Note: Macao requires separate applications for each class of goods or services; multi-class applications are not accepted.
After submission, the DSEDT examines the application for compliance. If accepted, the trademark is published in the Official Gazette for a two-month opposition period.
If no oppositions are filed, or if oppositions are resolved in your favor, the trademark is registered, and a registration mark certificate is issued. The entire process typically takes between 6 to 12 months.
A registered trademark in Macao is valid for seven years from the registration date and can be renewed indefinitely for subsequent seven-year periods. Renewal applications should be filed within six months before the expiration date.
Navigating Macao's trademark registration process can be complex, especially for foreign applicants unfamiliar with local laws and procedures. Common challenges include:
Ensuring accurate classification of goods and services
Meeting strict documentation requirements
Responding to oppositions or objections
Adhering to specific timelines and procedures
Engaging a professional service can mitigate these risks and streamline the process.
ProfitMark offers comprehensive support throughout the trademark registration process in Macao:
End-to-End Assistance: From initial consultation to obtaining the registered logo certificate.
Preliminary Searches: Conducting thorough trademark name search to identify potential conflicts.
Document Preparation: Ensuring all required documents, including the tm registration mark, are correctly prepared and submitted.
Remote Filing: Handling the entire process without the need for your physical presence.
Legal Support: Providing expert advice and representation in case of oppositions or disputes.
Transparent Pricing: Offering clear, fixed fees with no hidden costs.
Experience: Over 13 years in trademark registration services.
Global Reach: Successful registrations in more than 30 countries.
Expert Team: A dedicated team of international trademark professionals.
Client-Centric Approach: Tailored solutions to meet individual client needs.
Convenience: Fully online services, enabling you to manage registrations remotely.
Quality Assurance: Commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable services.
Securing your brand's identity in Macao is a strategic move that offers legal protection and enhances your business's credibility. With ProfitMark's expertise, the trademark registration process becomes straightforward and efficient. Don't leave your brand unprotected—contact ProfitMark today to safeguard your business's future in Macao.