Rwanda: Trademark

Trademark registration in Rwanda typically follows a multi-class filing system:

• Applicants must file a representation of the trademark and pay prescribed fees.
   

• A substantive examination ensures distinctiveness and verifies no conflict exists with prior trademarks.
   

• Registrations last for 10 years from the filing date, renewable for successive 10-year periods.
   

• Applicants must provide accurate details (name, address) and specify the classification of goods and services.

Once registered, trademark owners hold exclusive rights in Rwanda, with local recourse available for infringement cases.