Intellectual property rights in South Africa
A “know before you go” guide to help UK businesses on how to protect and enforce your IP when trading in South Africa.
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South Africa is a key emerging market for UK business. You should consider how to manage or protect your intellectual property (IP) if you are thinking about:
- exporting to South Africa
- manufacturing your products in South Africa
- licensing your IP in South Africa
If you are looking for more general advice for doing business in South Africa, UKTI’s online country guide may also be helpful.
Seeking professional advice
The UK IPO has information on the different types of IP rights and what they protect. However, IP rights are protected differently in different countries. It is important to get the right advice on IP strategy and the different ways you can protect your IP. If you are seeking to register your IP, or if your IP is infringed in South Africa, you should seek advice from local IP lawyers to guide you through the processes.
Links for business
You may find the following websites useful:
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Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC). This is the authority responsible for administering the trade mark registry and patent and design offices as well as registration of defensive company names and cinematograph films
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Department of Trade and Industry (the dti). The governmental department responsible for trade and industry. It houses the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission
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Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF). The governmental department for agriculture, forestry and fisheries and administers plant breeders’ rights
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British Chamber of Business in Southern Africa. Working to promote trade and commercial relations between the Southern Africa and the UK