Overview
Namibia protects trademarks, patents, and industrial designs primarily through its national legislation, under the supervision of the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA). As a member of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), Namibia offers applicants a choice between filing nationally or designating Namibia through relevant ARIPO protocols. This dual pathway provides flexibility for local and foreign applicants, enabling them to obtain coverage either solely in Namibia or across multiple ARIPO member states.
Namibia’s IP framework is broadly aligned with internationally recognized standards, ensuring that registrants have formal procedures for obtaining rights and legal mechanisms for enforcement. When infringements occur, rights holders can pursue remedies through established administrative and judicial channels.
International Conventions
Namibia is party to key global agreements that shape its IP environment, including:
Paris Convention
Berne Convention
TRIPS Agreement
Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)