South Sudan
Please note that it is not possible to obtain trade mark protection in South Sudan since the Registry has not yet resumed operations. During 2014, there was a brief period where it was possible to file trade mark applications. However, in 2015, the Registrar refused to accept new trade mark applications. Later, in 2017, the Registrar had indicated that it was possible to “reserve” a trade mark, on the basis that it would be given priority, once new trade mark legislation became effective. However, this was not allowed in practice. Fortunately, since June 2023, the position changed and it is now possible to “reserve” trade marks in South Sudan.
It is also possible to publish a cautionary notice, which is published in the newspaper and does not afford client any statutory rights.
Sudanese registrations do not extend to South Sudan and cover only the territory of ‘North’ Sudan
South Sudan is not party to any copyright agreements.
As of November 2022, there appears to be a Copyright Bill which will provide the framework for copyright protection in South Sudan.
TRADE MARK OFFICE NOT YET DEALING WITH LITIGIOUS MATTERS
Although the Sudanese Trade Mark Office started operating at the beginning of 2024 (see our previous update here), the Office has not yet started dealing with any litigation matters including oppositi...
February 12 2025
THE PATENT OFFICE IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS… SORT OF!
The Patent Office in Sudan has re-opened and is, once again, accepting new domestic patent applications. The Patent Office’s operations are, however, limited. Not only is the Patent Office not curre...
September 12 2024
Trade marks office resumes operations
As of 11 February 2024, the Sudanese Trade Marks Office (“TMO”) has resumed operations after nearly a year of closure due to civil unrest. The TMO is now accepting applications for trade mark regi...
April 12 2024
How can we help you?
We have offices in four major cities in South Africa: Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Additionally, we have 23 associate offices in the rest of Africa, the firm serves as a gateway into Africa for IP clients. Please contact your nearest office for any legal enquiry or assistance.