Patent DR Congo

Patent protection in DR Congo is also administered by the Service de la Propriété Industrielle. Patents are granted to inventions that demonstrate novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability.

• The standard duration for patents is 20 years from the filing date, contingent on the payment of annual maintenance fees.

• Applicants submit a detailed specification and claims outlining the invention’s scope.

• Although DR Congo does not participate in the PCT, applicants may file directly at the national office for protection.

• An exam confirms patentability before a patent is granted.

Patent holders in DR Congo can bring legal actions against infringers, exercising exclusive rights to make, use, or sell the patented invention within the country.