African IP Update: Ethiopia Takes On The Madrid Protocol & The Paris Convention
- Aisha Playton
- Sep 19
- 3 min read
The intellectual property landscape in Ethiopia has entered a transformative new chapter. With the recent ratification and full enforcement of both the Madrid Protocol and the Paris Convention, the path to securing IP rights for international businesses has been significantly reshaped. This is a welcome development, but it introduces new strategic considerations for rights holders. For a business or innovator, understanding how to leverage these changes is paramount. At De Beer Attorneys, an IP law firm with expert knowledge in the Ethiopian market, we provide the expert guidance you need to navigate this new terrain and protect your assets with confidence.
Understanding Ethiopia’s New IP Treaty Status
For decades, protecting intellectual property in Ethiopia operated largely under a national system. The pivotal shift occurred when the Ethiopian government formally ratified these key international treaties, a process that is now completed, making them fully enforceable as of the 15th of August 2025.
This means two critical things for your business:
The Paris Convention is in Force: Ethiopia now grants “national treatment” to citizens of other member states and, most importantly, recognises the crucial right of priority. This allows applicants to claim the filing date of an earlier application from another member country, giving applicants a vital grace period to secure retroactive IP rights in Ethiopia, subject to compliance with specific requirements.
The Madrid Protocol is in Force: Ethiopia can now be designated in an international trademark application filed through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). This offers a centralized, and often more streamlined, administrative process for businesses seeking protection in multiple countries.
However, the practical enforcement and examination of these IP rights still requires deep local expertise. This is where hiring an IP lawyer specialising in Ethiopian law becomes not just useful, but essential to ensure your international registration is aligned with national procedures.
National vs. International: How to Approach Strategic IP Filing in Ethiopia
While the latest treaty accessions in Ethiopia provide applicants with options, the best path for your business depends on your specific goals and the IP strategy that you have envisioned for your venture. We can help.
Expert Trademark Registration in Ethiopia
Whether you are considering a national trademark application in Ethiopia or using the international Madrid system, our team provides comprehensive trademark registration assistance. We can assist with thorough pre-filing searches, and handle all aspects of pre and post-registration prosecution. As experienced African trademark lawyers, we ensure your application, whether national or international, is robust and strategically filed to maximize protection and minimize risk in the Ethiopian market.
Robust Patent Application and Registration in Ethiopia
The process for patent registration in Ethiopia remains a highly technical endeavour. The Paris Convention now allows for priority claims in Ethiopia, which is a significant advantage. Our skilled patent lawyers manage the entire process, from conducting novelty searches to filing and prosecuting your application with the Ethiopian Intellectual Property Office. We ensure your invention is protected in accordance with both international standards and local law.
Why Hire De Beer Attorneys as Your IP Law Firm for Ethiopian Filings?
In the ever-changing legal landscape, having a knowledgeable partner is key. Our firm offers distinct advantages for international clients:
Localised Treaty Expertise: We don’t just understand the treaties theoretically; we have a deep understanding of their practical application within the Ethiopian system and across Africa.
Strategic, Client-Focused Advice: We take the time to understand your commercial objectives, advising you on the most effective and cost-efficient filing strategy for your unique needs.
Proactive Management and Enforcement: We manage your portfolio proactively, ensuring deadlines are met and advising on the enforcement of your newly granted rights within the country.
The integration of Ethiopia into the global IP system is a powerful opportunity to secure your assets more efficiently. However, to fully capitalise on the benefits of the Madrid Protocol and Paris Convention, you need a legal partner with proven expertise on the ground. Let De Beer Attorneys be your guide. We provide the clarity and expertise necessary to navigate this market successfully.
Contact our team of specialised African IP lawyers today for a consultation. We’ll help you build a robust strategy to protect your intellectual property in Ethiopia’s dynamic market. Email us at info@debeerattorneys.com or give us a call on +27-21-100-4545.
This information was last updated on 19 September 2025. This information is for general educational and entertainment purposes and is subject to change at any time.