Trademark registration is a critical aspect of Intellectual property law, serving as a key initial step needed to protect your brand in Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan is a country with a fast-growing economy and with the 9-largest territory in the world. Despite being the largest country in the world without direct access to the sea, it plays a vital role in international trade placing a strategic position on the trade routes from Europe to Asia. Kazakhstan is a member state of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU or EEU) and is a gate for the goods imported from East Asia and Central Asia to the countries of this economic union.
Kazakhstan's legal framework for trademark protection is defined by its dedication to meeting international standards and creating a business-friendly environment. Kazakhstan's intellectual property laws are shaped by compliance with international treaties such as the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property and the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), both of which the country has signed. It ensures that Kazakhstan's trademark protection rules are aligned with worldwide standards, thereby providing a strong mechanism for safeguarding trademarks.
The Law on Trademarks, Service Marks, and Appellations of Origin is Kazakhstan's fundamental trademark legislation, outlining the procedures for trademark registration, enforcement, and protection. The National Institute of Intellectual Property of the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Kazpatent), is the central authority in charge of trademark registrations and related matters.
The trademark registration process in Kazakhstan consists of several steps, including application submission, Office expertise, publishing for opposition, and the issuance of a trademark registration certificate. Once registered, a trademark is protected for 10 years, with the option to renew indefinitely every 10 years. This registration grants the trademark owner exclusive rights to use the mark in connection with the goods or services for which it is registered, as well as the right to prevent others from using similar marks that may confuse consumers.
