WHAT IS A PATENT

A patent is an exclusive right granted for an invention which may be a product or  a process that provides a new way of doing something or offers a new technical solution to a problem. A patent prevents others from making, using and/or selling a patented invention for a fixed period of time. In exchange for this exclusive right, the patent owner is required to disclose the invention.

A patent, therefore, is a powerful business tool for companies to gain exclusivity over a new product or process, develop a strong market position and earn additional revenues through licensing. A complex product such as a camera or a car may incorporate a number of inventions that are covered by several patents which may be owned by different patent holders.

The law governing patents in Zambia
The law governing the procedure for obtaining a patent in Zambia is the Patents Act Cap 400 of the Laws of Zambia. In Zambia, a patent is granted for a period of 16 years.