System Introduction Overview and Background
The Fair Competition Commission (FCC) of Tanzania announced on September 1, 2025, the implementation of a new system mandating trademark registration (Recordation) for imported goods starting December 1, 2025. From this date onward, all goods imported to mainland Tanzania must have their trademarks registered with the FCC.
This measure is a legal response following the addition of Section 11A to the Merchandise Marks Act through the enactment of the 2025 Finance Act, with specific procedures outlined in the 2025 Merchandise Marks (Registration) Regulations implemented on July 1, 2025.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must complete prescribed forms with the following information and submit them to the FCC along with required documents:
Mandatory Information:
- Applicant details
- Nationality and jurisdiction of trademark owner
- Manufacturing location of trademarked goods
- Samples or clear photographs of trademarked goods
- Details of individuals or entities licensed to use the trademark
Required Attachments:
- Certified copy of trademark registration certificate
- Proof of application fee payment
Registration System Operating Rules
Registration Scope: All trademarks require FCC registration regardless of registration location
Validity Period: Valid for one year from approval (renewal required thereafter)
Application Fee: 200,000 Tanzanian Shillings (approximately 11,800 yen, 1 Tanzanian Shilling = approximately 0.059 yen)
Review Period: The chief inspector of FCC must decide approval or rejection within 21 days of receiving applications, then notify applicants within 5 days
Limitations on Proxy Services
Only agents authorized and registered by trademark owners may conduct FCC registration business. This system design ensures quality assurance of procedures through qualified agents.
Expected Anti-Counterfeiting Effects
The FCC states that this system introduction will enable preventive measures against counterfeit imports of registered trademarks, with expectations for strengthened intellectual property protection in the Tanzanian market. While this creates new compliance requirements for importers, it is expected to function as an effective system from a brand protection perspective.