ZANZIBAR IP UPDATE: INCREASED OFFICIAL FEES FOR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY (IP) SERVICES IN ZANZIBAR EFFECTIVE 11TH AUGUST 2025

On 18^th  July 2025, the Zanzibar Intellectual Property Office formally announced an upward revision of official fees for a range of intellectual property (IP) services. The changes are introduced under the Zanzibar Business and Property Registration Agency (Fees and Charges) Regulations, 2025, and will take effect from 11^th August 2025.

The official fees changes will apply to all intellectual property spectrum to include trade marks, patents, industrial designs, layout design and geographical indication practices.

Significantly, all the revised fee schedule will apply prospectively, except retrospectively for pending trade mark applications which will be affected by the publications period of sixty (60) days from the date of publication, and at the time of registration, the official registration fees will be subject to new official fees. The adjustments will impact all categories of IP filings and proceedings, including:

• New applications
• Renewals and Late Renewals
• Recordal of changes
• Amendments
• Oppositions
• Hearings

Recommended Action

We strongly advise our clients to review their current and upcoming IP activities in Zanzibar without delay. To mitigate cost implications, we recommend that all relevant official fees be settled on or before 10^th  August 2025, where possible.

If you require assistance in reviewing your portfolio or taking timely action on pending matters in Zanzibar, please do not hesitate to contact our IP team.

 

Further Information:

This editorial is intended to give you a general overview of the Law. If you would like further information and clarification on any issue raised in this editorial, please contact.

Patrick Sanga
Partner
E: p.sanga@vemmaattorneys.co.tz

Haika-Belinda John Macha
Partner
E: hb.macha@vemmaattorneys.co.tz
M: +255 717 307 999