Registering a trademark with the National Institute of Standardization and Industrial Property (INNORPI) 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 2 months from the publication of the application in the Bulletin Officiel de la Propriété Industrielle (official bulletin).
In Tunisia, you can register word marks, figurative marks, combined marks, three-dimensional marks, and sound marks, provided they are distinctive. Marks contrary to public morality, religious values, or state symbols are prohibited.
The certificate is valid for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely every 10 years.
The owner has the exclusive right to use the mark commercially in Tunisia, 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 19 of the Trademark Protection Law.
If the trademark is not renewed within 10 years from the filing date, the registration is canceled. Reinstatement is possible within 6 months after the deadline by paying an additional fee.
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A strong trademark is not only a symbol of your company’s identity but also an invaluable asset that helps establish trust and loyalty among customers worldwide. Tunisia, with its strategic location in North Africa, expanding economy, and progressive business environment, presents a promising market for entrepreneurs and companies looking to expand their footprint.
To operate legally and safely within Tunisia’s market, registering your trademark is essential. This legal step ensures exclusive rights to your brand and protects you against unfair competition and infringement. This article explores why registering your trademark in Tunisia matters, the key steps involved, possible challenges, and how ProfitMark can support you throughout the process.
Registering a trademark in Tunisia offers several significant advantages:
Protection from Copying and Unfair Competition
A registered trademark safeguards your brand against unauthorized use, imitation, and unfair competition, helping maintain your reputation and market position.
Exclusive Rights to Use Your Brand
Upon registration, you obtain the exclusive legal right to use your trademark across Tunisia, which you can enforce in case of infringement.
Enhancement of Company and Brand Value
A registered trademark is a valuable intellectual property asset that adds commercial value to your business, attracting investors, partners, and customers.
Opportunities for Licensing and Franchising
Ownership of a registered trademark allows you to license your brand or expand through franchising, unlocking additional revenue streams.
Legal Advantage in Trademark Disputes
Registered trademarks provide a stronger legal standing in case of conflicts over brand ownership or usage rights.
The trademark registration process in Tunisia is managed by the National Institute of Industrial Property (INAPI). The key steps include:
Before filing, conducting a trademark name search and trade mark office search is crucial to ensure your proposed trademark or tm logo trademark does not conflict with existing registered marks or restricted trademarks.
The following documents are required for trademark registration:
A clear representation of the trademark registered logo or tm trademark logo
A detailed list of goods and/or services the mark will cover
Applicant information (individual or company)
Power of attorney if registration is through an agent
Applications can be submitted online or in person.
The trademark office reviews the application for completeness and conformity with formal requirements.
This stage evaluates the distinctiveness of the mark and checks for conflicts with prior registered trademarks or restricted trademarks.
Once the trademark passes examination, the registration mark is published in the official gazette, opening a window for third parties to file oppositions.
If no oppositions arise or any oppositions are resolved in favor of the applicant, the trademark is registered, and a registration certificate is issued.
Trademark registration in Tunisia is valid for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely for subsequent 10-year terms.
Tunisia maintains a national trademark register that records all registered trademarks and registration marks. This register is essential for conducting trademark name searches and monitoring potential infringement or disputes.
Navigating the trademark registration process in Tunisia can be complex without professional help, leading to:
Mistakes in filling out applications or incomplete submissions
Failure to perform an effective trademark name search, risking conflicts
Delays caused by oppositions or procedural errors
Difficulty in handling legal objections or appeals
Lack of timely updates on status or deadlines
Professional guidance ensures accuracy, reduces risks, and expedites trademark registration.
ProfitMark offers comprehensive support for trademark registration, including:
Full assistance throughout the registration process, from preparation to certificate issuance
Verification of uniqueness and trademark name search across local and international databases
Filing applications without requiring your personal presence
Legal support in opposition or dispute cases
Transparent pricing and guaranteed timelines
With ProfitMark, trademark registration becomes straightforward, efficient, and stress-free.
Over 13 years of experience in trademark registration globally
Successful trademark registration cases in more than 30 countries
An international team of experts with deep local market knowledge
Personalized and professional approach to every client
Online services enabling full remote processing
Quality assurance and customer satisfaction guarantees
ProfitMark is your trusted partner to safeguard and grow your brand.
Do not delay protecting your brand in Tunisia. Registering your trademark secures your rights, enhances your company’s value, and opens new business opportunities. With ProfitMark, the process is simple, transparent, and reliable.
Contact ProfitMark today and secure the future of your business!