The Maldives has taken a big step on brand protection. The President has ratified the new Trademark Act, creating a structured system for registering and enforcing trademark rights for the first time.
What’s changing
- A formal trademark registration system is being introduced.
- Civil liability is now clearly provided for trademark infringement.
- Criminal penalties will apply to counterfeiting and other serious violations.
Timelines and compliance
- The Act will come into force 12 months after its publication in the Government Gazette.
- Businesses already using trademarks in the Maldives will have 12 months from the Act’s effective date to register their marks.
- All relevant authorities must issue detailed rules and guidelines within 6 months after the Act becomes effective.
Why it matters for brand owners
This is a major policy shift. The Maldives is moving from an informal, notice-based system to a clear statutory registration regime. That means more:
- certainty on rights,
- stronger enforcement options, and
- a greater need to plan filings early to avoid conflicts once the registry opens.
Conclusion
The Maldives Trademark Act is a foundational change in the country’s intellectual property landscape. The cautionary notice system provided limited, notice-based protection without exclusive rights. The new Act creates a formal, structured, and enforceable registration regime for the first time in the country’s history.
For brand owners with existing or planned presence in the Maldivian market, the transition is both an opportunity and a deadline. The first-to-file system rewards early action. The 12-month transition period provides a defined window, but that window will close. Preparation should begin now.
Governing Law
Trademark Act (Maldives), Law No. 19/2025 | Maldives Intellectual Property Office Act, Law No. 12/2025 | Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property, 1883 | TRIPS Agreement, Article 15-21 | Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works (Maldives acceded 22 August 2025, effective 22 November 2025)
