Unpacking the Mauritius Accession to the ARIPO Harare Protocol: What It Means for Your Patents & Designs

We have some exciting news for innovators and businesses eyeing an expansion into the African market. Mauritius has officially joined the ARIPO Harare Protocol, making it the 21st member state as of the 27th of August 2025. This development is welcomed news for anyone looking to secure patent, utility model, or industrial design protection in Mauritius and across Africa. Whether you're an innovative startup founder, a multinational corporation, or a local inventor, this development simplifies the Mauritian patent registration process and expands your options.

How the Incorporation of ARIPO will transform IP Protection in Mauritius?

Until now, securing patents or industrial designs in Mauritius could only be achieved through the e-PCT system or by navigating the local IP system. But, with the country's recent accession to the Harare Protocol, after the 27th of August, applicants will be able to designate Mauritius in their ARIPO patent application, potentially saving applicants time, extra paperwork, and filing costs.

How ARIPO Filings in Mauritius will Function in Practice

If you've already filed an ARIPO patent or industrial design application in another ARIPO state, you will be able to designate Mauritius on your existing application after its effective date in August. Mauritian businesses and inventors will also gain the right to file directly with the ARIPO Office, opening doors to easier regional IP coverage. For those wondering how to secure a patent in Mauritius, the ARIPO route just became the most efficient option to secure your rights in the island market. This development is particularly valuable news for tech companies, manufacturers, and designers who need robust IP safeguards in Africa's growing markets.

Will the ARIPO Harare Protocol Affect Trademark Applications in Mauritius, too?

One important caveat: Mauritius has not acceded to the Banjul Protocol, which is ARIPO's trademark system. So, if you're looking for trademark protection in Mauritius, you will still need to file your application either nationally or through the Madrid System.

Why The Adoption of the ARIPO Harare Protocol in Mauritius Matters for Your Business

If you have experience with filing an ARIPO patent, you understand the value of navigating a streamlined system. Now that ARIPO has added Mauritius to its ever-growing list of member states, applicants can expect:

• Broader protection with a single application: There's no need to file your sub-saharan African patent application separately in Mauritius if you've already applied via ARIPO. 

• Faster, more cost-effective filings: ARIPO filings can reduce the need for duplicate fees and administrative hurdles. 

• Stronger IP security in a key market: Mauritius is a financial and tech hub in Africa, making an expansion of the options regarding patent protection in this market even more crucial.

• Same system, more options: For those exploring how to file an ARIPO patent application, the good news is that the process remains largely the same, just with a proverbial extra box to tick to secure Mauritian coverage.

Looking For An ARIPO Law Firm To Secure Your Patent Rights in Mauritius?

Navigating ARIPO patent law can be complex. Whether you're filing a fresh application or extending an existing ARIPO filing to include Mauritius, working with an experienced ARIPO attorney makes all the difference.

Our team specialises in African IP registrations, from patents and utility models to industrial designs. We can help you:

• File a new ARIPO patent application with Mauritius designation.

• Extend existing ARIPO patent rights to include Mauritius.

• Advise on the best strategy for protecting your innovations across Africa, using IP systems.

With Mauritius now part of the ARIPO system, there's never been a better time to strengthen your IP portfolio in Africa. Reach out to De Beer Attorneys today for award-winning African IP protection, and let's discuss how we can help protect your ideas, efficiently and effectively. Contact us at info@debeerattorneys.com

This information was last updated on 12 June 2025. This information is for general educational and entertainment purposes and is subject to change at any time.