Trademark Squatting in Indonesia: Real or Hype?

Spoiler: It’s real — and surprisingly common.

 

Trademark squatting is not just a scary headline. It frequently occurs in Indonesia, particularly in fast-moving consumer sectors such as beauty, fashion, and F&B. Both local and foreign parties rush to register brands that do not actually belong to them, hoping to profit when the rightful owner enters the market.

 

But here is the good news: 

Most squatters lose — if challenged strategically and in time.

 

However, this requires you to complete your “homework” before we can fight the squatter before the Court of Commerce in Indonesia, such as:

 

1. At least 5 Trademark registrations filed overseas before the squatter(s) filed the same Mark in Indonesia. The more registrations there is, the better.
2. Evidence of use overseas by your company.
3. If possible, any leads or evidence that suggest the squatter(s) had past interactions with your company (i.e., asking for license or distribution rights).

 

Indonesia’s Trademark Law allows oppositions at the Trademark Office stage and cancellations based on bad faith at the Court of Commerce stage. However, cautions and preparations are needed before you can pursue your rights in this case.

 

Avoid the squat trap, email or book a free 15-minute call with us — let’s make sure your Trademark stays yours!

 

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