NOTICE ON THE OPERATIONALISATION OF THE TRADE MARKS ACT NO. 11 OF 2023

The Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA) wishes to inform the public and all stakeholders that the Trade Marks Act No. 11 of 2023 has now been fully operationalised following the signing of Statutory Instrument No. 86 of 2025 by the Honourable Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, MP.

The operationalisation of the Act marks a significant milestone in the modernisation of Zambia’s intellectual property framework. The Act repeals the Trade Marks Act, Chapter 401 of the Laws of Zambia, and introduces a modern, efficient and internationally aligned regime for the protection and administration of trade marks.

The Trade Marks Act, 2023 strengthens Zambia’s intellectual property system by, among other things:

• providing enhanced protection for trade marks, including recognition of well-known marks;
• providing for the registration of service marks;
• introducing protection for geographical indications, thereby supporting value addition, market differentiation and rural development;
• domesticating the Madrid Protocol, enabling international registration of trade marks designating Zambia;
• strengthening enforcement mechanisms, including border measures to combat counterfeiting and infringement; and
• modernising registration procedures to improve efficiency, transparency and service delivery.

The operationalisation of the Act underscores Zambia’s commitment to fostering innovation, supporting enterprise growth, and enhancing competitiveness within regional and global markets.

PACRA remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation of the new law and to providing guidance to rights holders, businesses and the general public on the new trade mark regime.

Further information and guidance may be obtained from the Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA).