Prior to 2009, all trade marks registered in Burundi were valid for an indefinite period. However, the entry into force of Law no. 1/13 of 28 July 2009 relating to Industrial Property in Burundi changed this position. After 28 July 2009, all trade marks must be renewed every 10 years, and those registered prior to the enactment of the new law were set to be renewed within 10 years of this law coming into force, i.e. by 28 July 2019. A 6-month grace period for late renewal was granted, which ended on 28 January 2020.

However, as certain proprietors did not meet these deadlines, the Ministry of Commerce issued a Notice on 27 February 2023, which established a new deadline for renewal of these trade marks.

In this Notice, the deadline for the renewal of all trade marks which were registered before 28 July 2009 has been extended to 1 January 2025. A further grace period of six months will be granted upon payment of late renewal fees. Thus, all trade marks registered before 28 July 2009 which have not been renewed must be renewed with the Industrial Property Department before 1 January 2025.

Please contact us if you require assistance in this regard.