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
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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.
- 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:
- Review Your Trademark Portfolio
Identify Trademarks currently protected only through cautionary notices. - Prepare for Re-Registration
Prepare documentation for filing once the 12-month transition window opens on 11 November 2026 to ensure continuity of protection. - 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 : [email protected]
📞 Book a Call : +62 21 83793812
💬 WhatsApp : +62 812 87000 889
