Trademark Registrations Surge in First Six Months, Disputes Also Rise

More than 1,500 trademarks have been registered in Nepal during the first six months of the current fiscal year 2082/83, reflecting growing interest in brand protection among businesses. According to the Department of Industry, a total of 1,520 trademarks were registered between Shrawan and the end of Poush.

Information Officer Suresh Dahal said that registrations have increased significantly in recent months. He noted that 504 trademarks were registered in Poush alone, indicating rising awareness among entrepreneurs about the importance of protecting their brands.

With these new registrations, the total number of trademarks registered in Nepal has now reached 70,335. The Department has set a target to increase this figure to 73,815 by the end of the current fiscal year. Officials believe the steady rise reflects expanding business activities and growing competition in the market.

Experts say the trend shows that more companies and individuals are focusing on building unique brand identities. As new startups, products, and services enter the market, trademark registration is increasingly viewed as a necessary step to secure legal ownership and market recognition.

However, the increase in registrations has also led to a rise in trademark-related disputes. The Department reports that hundreds of complaints have been filed over similarities between trademarks. So far, 43 cases have been resolved, including two decisions made in Poush. Authorities say many disputes arise from applicants submitting names or logos that closely resemble existing brands.

Officials warn that such conflicts create delays and increase administrative pressure. They emphasize the need for applicants to conduct proper searches before submitting their trademarks to avoid legal complications.

Under Nepalese law, a trademark refers to any word, symbol, image, or combination used to distinguish one company’s goods or services from others. Trademark registration in Nepal is governed by the Patent, Design and Trademark Act 2022, which provides the legal framework for intellectual property protection.

According to the Act, if a registered trademark is not used within one year of registration, the Department has the authority to cancel it after necessary review. Once registered, trademark rights remain valid for seven years. Renewal must be completed at least 45 days before expiry to maintain legal protection.

The Department has fixed the registration fee for trademarks at NPR 5,000. Officials say the relatively affordable fee and simplified procedures have encouraged more businesses to apply for registration in recent years.

However, not all trademarks are eligible for registration. Marks that may harm public morality, damage national interest, affect another party’s reputation, or closely resemble previously registered trademarks are rejected. Authorities stress that these restrictions are essential to maintain fairness and protect consumers.

Analysts believe the growing number of trademark registrations reflects positive momentum in Nepal’s business environment. At the same time, the rising volume of disputes highlights the need for stricter screening and stronger regulatory oversight.

The Department of Industry has stated that it plans to further strengthen digital systems and improve verification processes to reduce conflicts and speed up registrations. Officials say enhancing transparency and efficiency will be key to supporting Nepal’s expanding business sector in the coming years.