Tanzania introduces mandatory trade mark recordation for all imports

What's the development?

As of 1 December 2025, all goods imported into Tanzania will need to comply with a new trade mark recordation requirement. The requirement will impact trade mark owners and importers bringing products into Tanzania.

Failure to comply may result in delays in customs clearance and potential disruption to importing products into Tanzania (including a risk that genuine products will be mistaken for counterfeits).

Why is recordation required?

The Fair Competition Commission (FCC) says that the initiative will enhance intellectual property enforcement and border protection, and combat the number of counterfeit products entering the Tanzanian market.

What should the application for recordation include?

Applications to the FCC must include:

• full applicant details, nationality or jurisdiction of incorporation, and place of manufacture

• sample or clear image of the trade marked goods

• information on licensees or affiliated entities

• certified copy of the trade mark registration.

What to do next?

Trade mark owners should start to investigate which products are imported into Tanzania and gather the necessary documents and information needed to file the recordation application. Top up filings in Tanzania might be required. An application for recordal should be filed in good time before the 1 December 2025 deadline.