Setting up a business in alternate developing Asian markets, such as Pakistan, is attractive since it is a cost-competitive region. But before commencing a business, it is highly recommended to conduct trademark registration in Pakistan to protect the assets. Find out how to protect your business in Pakistan.
Trademark registration in Pakistan – a guide to trademark protection in Pakistan
Is trademark registration mandatory in Pakistan?
A trademark is a type of intellectual property that allows one to position and identify companies on the market. Registering a trademark gives the company the exclusive right to use it and prevents competitors from using the same or similar one. Although it is not compulsory to register a trademark in Pakistan, it is highly advisable.
Trademarks in Pakistan
The legal definition of “trade mark” in Pakistan (per “The Trade Marks Ordinance”) is any mark capable of being represented graphically, which is capable of distinguishing goods or services of one undertaking from those of other undertakings. The mark can be (in particular) a:
- device
- brand
- heading
- label
- ticket
- name, including a person’s name
- signature
- word
- letter
- numeral
- figurative elements
- color
- sound
- or/and a combination thereof.
Where to register a trademark in Pakistan?

The competent administration of trademarks in Pakistan is the Trademarks Office of the Intellectual Property Organization of Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan). It is under the Ministry of Commerce, and its headquarters are in Karachi.
How to register a trademark in Pakistan?
1. National registration in Pakistan
Applications for trademark registration in Pakistan can be filed personally or via post to the Trade Marks Registry. Foreigners are required to have a trademark agent who is resident in Pakistan.
2. International application
Pakistan is a member of:
- Paris Convention on Protection of Industrial Property
- Madrid Agreement/Protocol
- The World Trade Organization Agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS).
Madrid System is administered by WIPO. If you are registered in WIPO, you can extend your application to Pakistan.
Which method should you choose to register your trademark in Pakistan?
We highly recommend taking the national route to register a trademark in Pakistan.
Trademark classes in Pakistan
The classes of trademarks in Pakistan are based on the International Classification of Goods and Services under the Nice Agreement. We can help you determine the correct class for your business. Feel free to contact us at [email protected].
How long does trademark registration take in Pakistan?
Trademark registration in Pakistan can take 12-24 months.
What is the validity of a trademark in Pakistan?
The issued registration certificate in Pakistan is valid for 10 years. The trademark can be renewed every ten years.
How much does trademark registration in Pakistan cost?
Businesses have to budget for trademark registration in Pakistan. The overall cost is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Please reach us to us to get an individual calculation.
Protect your brand and register your trademark in Pakistan
Trademark applications in Pakistan can be rejected on many grounds. We have years of experience registering trademarks across Asia. We offer a trademark counseling service that includes:
- trademark pre-filing search
- trademark pre-examination
- determining the right classes
- collecting paperwork and filing the application
- communicating with the Trademarks Office until the registration certificate is issued.
Protect your business asset and avoid having your trademark hijacked by registering your trademark. Reach out to us so we can assist you with trademark prosecution methods. For more information, please refer to Trademark Registration.