Overview
Zimbabwe protects trademarks, patents, and industrial designs through the Zimbabwe Intellectual Property Office (ZIPO). It is also a member of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), enabling applicants to file locally or via ARIPO protocols to cover multiple jurisdictions. This approach gives both local and foreign applicants flexible options when seeking IP protection in the country.
Zimbabwe’s IP regime is largely consistent with international standards. Once granted, IP rights may be enforced through administrative or judicial mechanisms, ensuring that rights holders can pursue claims against infringers.
International Conventions
Zimbabwe is a contracting party to several major IP treaties that shape its legal framework. These include:
Paris Convention
Berne Convention
TRIPS Agreement
Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)