Trademark Registration Nepal: DOI Notice on Pending Formalities and Compliance

Trademark registration nepal applicants and owners should review the Department of Industry’s notice on pending formalities and compliance deadlines.

Department of Industry Notice on Trademark Registration  Nepal

On 19 August 2025, the Department of Industry (DOI) under the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Supplies, published a notice requiring trademark applicants and owners to complete pending formalities pursuant to the Patents, Designs and Trademarks Act, 2022 (1965).

Compliance Requirements & Practical Implications

1. 1. Trademark Applicants – 90-day deadline (by 17 November 2025):
      First, ascertain whether your applications are pending publication, awaiting certificate collection, or have already been registered. Then, within 90 days of publication of this notice:
      
      1. Submit any missing documents for pending applications that have not yet been published in the Industrial Property Bulletin.
      2. Collect trademark registration certificates upon payment of the prescribed fee.

      Failure to comply will result in automatic dismissal of the application and lapse of registration on the 91st day.

1. 1. Registered Trademark Owners – 60-day deadline (by 18 October 2025):
      Gather and submit proof of trademark use or product samples to the DOI. Acceptable proof may include:
      
      • Product packaging or labels bearing the trademark.
      • Advertising or promotional materials.
      • Invoices, receipts, or export/import documents showing use.
      • Website screenshots or online listings.
      • Physical product samples.

      Failure to provide proof may expose the mark to cancellation for non-use.

1. Businesses entering the Nepalese market:
   
   1. Ensure trademark counsel or agents are monitoring deadlines under the DOI’s notice.
   2. Factor in compliance timelines when planning brand launches.
   3. Maintain records of use for future verification and enforcement purposes.

G&A’s Commentary
This notice underscores the DOI’s strict enforcement of procedural requirements and the “use it or lose it” principle for trademark protection in Nepal. Trademark owners and applicants must not assume that filings alone are sufficient; timely compliance with administrative and evidentiary requirements is crucial to securing and maintaining protection.
We strongly encourage you to contact us immediately if this notice may apply to your filings or registrations. Taking early action will help safeguard your rights and prevent cancellation.