OAPI: Trademark

Bangui Agreement

OAPI trademarks are regulated by the Bangui Agreement, providing a unified registration process that covers all member states. A single trademark application suffices, and applicants can choose single or multiple classes in one filing.

• Renewal Period: Registrations are valid for 10 years from the filing date and can be renewed indefinitely in 10-year increments.
• Applications: Applicants must submit comprehensive details, including a representation of the trademark and a clear identification of the goods or services.
• Exam: OAPI conducts a formal examination to confirm compliance with filing requirements; a substantive examination may follow, primarily to verify distinctiveness.
• Member State Implications: Once the trademark is granted, it enjoys automatic coverage in all member states, eliminating the need for separate national procedures.