IP Africa News – Vol.3/Q3/Issue7

ETHIOPIA

Ethiopia accedes to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property

Ethiopia has taken a major step towards strengthening its intellectual property regime by formally acceding to the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. The instrument of accession was deposited with the Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) on 15 May 2025, and the Convention is set to enter into force for Ethiopia on 15 August 2025.

This development marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia's efforts to modernise its IP framework, providing stronger protection for patents, trademarks, and industrial designs, while enhancing legal certainty for both local and international businesses operating within the jurisdiction.

By joining the Paris Convention, Ethiopia aligns its IP system with globally recognised standards, making it easier for rights holders to seek and enforce protection across borders. The accession is also expected to promote innovation, facilitate foreign investment, and encourage technology transfer — all of which are critical to Ethiopia's long-term economic and industrial development.

MOROCCO

Morocco and WIPO Sign Agreement to Strengthen Intellectual Property and Protect Cultural Heritage

In a noteworthy move to reinforce its intellectual property (IP) framework and safeguard its cultural legacy, Morocco has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in areas such as copyright, neighbouring rights, and the protection of Morocco’s rich intangible heritage.

Under the MoU, the key objectives include strengthening Morocco’s national IP strategy, improving copyright administration and rights management, and promoting traditional cultural expressions such as the caftan and zellige.

Through this collaboration, Morocco will gain access to WIPO’s technical support and international digital tools, while also benefitting from capacity-building initiatives for Morocco’s Copyright Office and knowledge-exchange programmes. The agreement further seeks to ensure fair compensation and recognition for Moroccan creators.

This strategic partnership represents a significant step in integrating IP rights into Morocco’s broader cultural and economic development plans. It reinforces national identity while supporting the long-term sustainability of the country’s creative industries.

ARIPO Reforms to Patent and Design System: Critical Updates for 2025

Effective 1 March 2025, the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) introduced significant amendments to the Harare Protocol, marking a transformative shift in patent and industrial design procedures across member states. These reforms bring notable changes to substantive examination, administrative processes, and fee structures—requiring immediate attention from applicants and IP professionals.

Major Changes and Their Implications

• Tailored Claims by Jurisdiction
  Applicants may now submit distinct sets of claims for different jurisdictions. This flexibility allows filings to be aligned with local legal requirements and examination practices without undermining protection in other ARIPO territories.

• Stricter and Clearer Deadlines
  The reforms establish more precise timelines for responding to communications and receiving notifications, improving clarity and predictability during prosecution.

• Revised Fee Structure
  ARIPO has introduced new charges and increased several existing fees, including those for post-filing claim amendments and extension requests. In some cases, rates have risen by over 50% compared to previous levels.

• Enhanced Efficiency and Digitalisation
  Internal procedural changes now prioritise efficiency, with an expanded use of digital tools and faster handling of correspondence. These updates aim to improve the Secretariat’s service delivery and reduce turnaround times.

Zanzibar: Increase in Official IP Fees

The Zanzibar Intellectual Property (IP) Registry has announced a revision of its official fees, which took effect on Monday, 11 August 2025.

The update was formally published in the Zanzibar Government Gazette on 18 July 2025, providing stakeholders with advance notice of the changes.

This development underscores the importance for applicants, rights holders, and practitioners to review the revised fee schedule and factor the adjustments into their filing and enforcement strategies within Zanzibar.

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