Trademark rights in Egypt come from registration. How the registration process works, the 60-day opposition window, renewals, and the options when someone copies your brand.
A brand is often a company's most valuable asset, and in Egypt trademark protection comes mainly from registration. Businesses entering the market, and startups building a brand, should register early and keep their registrations under review.
The framework
Trademarks are governed by the Intellectual Property Law (Law No. 82 of 2002). Applications are filed with the Egyptian trademarks office and classified under the international Nice Classification of goods and services. Egypt is also a member of the Madrid System, so international registrations can be extended to Egypt.
The registration process
- Clearance search. Before filing, search the register for identical or similar marks in the relevant classes. This avoids wasted cost and later disputes.
- Filing. The application identifies the mark, the owner and the goods or services in each class.
- Examination. The office checks the application against earlier marks and the legal requirements, including public order and morality.
- Publication and opposition. Accepted applications are published in the Trademarks Gazette. Third parties then have 60 days from publication to oppose.
- Registration. If there is no successful opposition, the mark is registered.
If an application is refused, or an opposition succeeds, the applicant can challenge the decision within the period set by the law, generally 30 days from notification.
Duration and renewal
A registration lasts ten years from the filing date and can be renewed for further ten-year periods. Owners should diarise renewal dates. Marks that are not used for an extended period may also become vulnerable to cancellation, so use should be documented.
Enforcement
Where a registered mark is infringed, the owner can take civil action for an injunction and compensation, and infringement can also give rise to criminal liability. Practical steps include:
- Collecting evidence: test purchases, photographs, invoices and online listings.
- Cease and desist letters, which resolve many cases quickly.
- Seizure measures to stop infringing goods before or during proceedings.
- Border and online measures, where available, to stop counterfeit imports and remove infringing listings.
- Opposition and cancellation actions against confusingly similar applications and registrations.
Practical tips for businesses
- Register your main brand, logo and any Arabic version of the name.
- Register before launching in Egypt, and before discussions with distributors or franchisees.
- Make sure the company, not a founder or distributor, is the registered owner.
- Watch the Trademarks Gazette for conflicting applications.
- Record licences and assignments properly so they are effective against third parties.
How we can help
We handle trademark searches, filings, oppositions, renewals and enforcement in Egypt, and coordinate protection in other regional markets. Contact us to protect your brand.
This briefing reflects the position as at November 2026.
This briefing is for general information only and is not legal advice. For advice on your situation, contact us.