Malawi: Design

Industrial designs in Malawi focus on the visual or aesthetic elements of an article. Applications are lodged with the Registrar General’s Department or through ARIPO if desired for broader regional coverage.

• Applicants must file clear representations of the design and pay official fees.

• Design registrations typically last for an initial term of five years, renewable twice for a total of 15 years.

• Applicant information must be accurate to facilitate the registration process.

Upon registration, design proprietors gain the exclusive right to restrict others from producing or selling products embodying the protected design in Malawi.