Trademark Registration in South Africa

South Africa is not a member of the Madrid Protocol. Applications can be filed through a local attorney. A notarized power of attorney must be submitted. A list of the classes in which the trademark will be used must be submitted. A representation of the trademark must be submitted. A single-class application system is used. The 10th edition of the Nice Classification applies. The term of protection for a trademark is 10 years. By renewing it every 10 years, the trademark can be used indefinitely. An opposition can be filed within 3 months after the trademark is published in the official bulletin. The trademark must be used within 5 years of the registration date. If the trademark is not used for 5 years, third parties may file an action for its cancellation. Renewal is required every 10 years.