Maldives Adopts Its First Trademark Act: 12-Month Transition Period for Brand Owners

On 11 November 2025, the President of the Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, ratified the Trademark Bill, which has now been promulgated as the Trademark Act (Law No. 19/2025) through publication in the Government Gazette.

The Act will enter into force on 11 November 2026, followed by a 12-month transition period for existing Trademark owners who have been relying on cautionary notices. This milestone marks the establishment of the country’s first comprehensive, registration-based Trademark protection system, replacing the long-standing practice of relying on cautionary notice publications.

Key Features of the New Trademark Act

1. First-to-File System
   Trademark rights will be determined based on the filing date, with examination on both absolute and relative grounds. Additional safeguards are provided for well-known marks.
2. Term of Protection and Renewal
   Registered Trademarks will be valid for 10 years from the filing or registration date and may be renewed indefinitely in successive 10-year periods.
3. Transition Requirements for Existing Owners
   Brand owners currently relying on cautionary notices must file formal Trademark applications within 12 months from 11 November 2026 to maintain uninterrupted protection.
4. Strengthened Enforcement Mechanisms
   The Act equips rights holders with a full suite of enforcement tools, including:
   • Civil actions (injunctions, damages, and destruction or removal of infringing goods);
   • Criminal penalties for counterfeiting; and
   • Customs border measures to block the importation of infringing products.
5. Issuance of Implementing Regulations
   Competent authorities are required to publish implementing regulations and guidelines in the Government Gazette within 6 months of the Act taking effect.

What Should Businesses Do Now?

Businesses operating in or entering the Maldivian market are advised to:

1. Review Your Trademark Portfolio
   Identify Trademarks currently protected only through cautionary notices.
2. Prepare for Re-Registration
   Prepare documentation for filing once the 12-month transition window opens on 11 November 2026 to ensure continuity of protection.
3. Update Internal IP Processes
   Align brand protection and enforcement strategies with the upcoming registration-based regime.

Should you need more information on Trademark registration in the Maldives or other international jurisdictions, contact us through the channels below and get a FREE 15-minute consultation!

📩 E-Mail : trademark@affa.co.id

📞 Book a Call : +62 21 83793812

💬 WhatsApp : +62 812 87000 889