Trade Marks Act, 2014
An Act providing for the registration and protection of trade marks in Sierra Leone.
Summary
The Trade Marks Act, 2014 provides a modern framework for the registration and protection of trade marks in Sierra Leone — the signs that distinguish the goods or services of one trader from those of others. It modernised the country's trade-mark law.
The Act provides for the registration of trade marks, the conditions and grounds for registration and refusal, the procedure for application, examination, opposition and registration, the rights conferred by registration and their duration and renewal, and the assignment and licensing of marks. It provides for remedies against infringement and for offences such as counterfeiting, and gives effect to international trade-mark obligations. It supports brand protection, trade and investment.
Main provisions
- Provides for the registration and protection of trade marks.
- Sets the conditions and grounds for registration and refusal.
- Provides for application, examination, opposition and registration.
- Defines the rights conferred, their duration and renewal.
- Provides for assignment, licensing and remedies against infringement.
- Addresses counterfeiting and gives effect to international obligations.