Trademark Registration in Maldives (Cautionary Notice Publication)

The Maldives currently relies on Cautionary Notices—publications in local newspapers—to assert and maintain trademark rights. Selvams provides a turnkey service: drafting, Dhivehi translation, publication logistics, and future republishing.

Maldives trademark overview

There is no conventional trademark registry in the Maldives. Rights are demonstrated through public notice (Cautionary Notices) and market use. This system supports passing-off remedies and helps deter third-party adoption.

Step-by-step process

  1. Scoping: confirm owner details, mark format (word/logo), and goods/services (Nice classes).
  2. Drafting: we prepare the Cautionary Notice text and layout for publication.
  3. Translation: Dhivehi translation (English + Dhivehi recommended for reach and evidence).
  4. Publication: place in a leading local newspaper (some clients choose two).
  5. Proof & records: collect the tear-sheet / digital proof and docket everything.
  6. Calendaring: set reminders for strategic republishing based on risk profile.

Documents & information required

  • Owner name, address, nationality, legal status
  • Trademark representation (word and/or logo as JPG/PNG)
  • Nice classes and full specifications of goods/services

Power of Attorney: not typically required for publication.

Timelines, language, and republishing

  • Timeline: publication usually completes in 2–4 weeks, depending on newspaper schedules.
  • Language: publish in English and Dhivehi for broader notice and evidentiary strength.
  • Republication: no statutory renewal; common practice is to republish every 2–3 or 5 years (brand-dependent).
  • Multi-class: single notice can cover multiple classes for the same owner.

Enforcement & strategy

Cautionary Notices provide persuasive evidence of ownership and intent to enforce, supporting passing-off claims and cease-and-desist actions. We align your Maldives strategy with your broader South Asian portfolio, distributor contracts, and online brand protection.

FAQs

Is there a trademark registry in the Maldives?

No—protection relies on newspaper Cautionary Notices rather than a central registry.

How often should we republish?

Practices vary. Many rights-holders republish every 2–3 years; others choose 5 years (or annually for high-exposure brands).

Can foreign applicants protect marks?

Yes. We act as your local agent and manage publication and proofs.

Which newspapers and languages?

Leading local newspapers; English + Dhivehi recommended.

What does it cost?

Fixed professional fees plus newspaper charges (length, layout, and language affect cost). Request a quote below.

Get a quote

We’ll share a clear timeline and a fixed-fee proposal based on your mark(s) and classes.

Request proposal