Iran Unveils Sweeping New IP Law: Boosts Innovation Amid Steep Fee Hikes

All accepted trademark applications and other post-registration trademark actions are now published electronically on the Intellectual Property System website, replacing the previous practice of publication in the Official Gazette. This transition to electronic publication has resulted in the cancellation of the previously applicable publication fees, reducing the financial burden on applicants

Increased Official Fees

While the new law brings several advancements, it also introduces increased official fees for various IP services. For instance, the filing fee for a trademark application for legal entities in one class has risen from 400,000 rials to 10 million rials. Similarly, the registration fee for legal entities in one class has increased from 2.4 million rials to 30 million rials, and the appeal fee in one class has gone up from 750,000 rials to 25 million rials .

These fee increases are a significant change from the previous system, where foreign applicants were required to pay fees in euros. The new law mandates that official fees be paid in Iranian rials and exclusively through online channels. While the shift to rial payments may reduce costs for foreign applicants due to favorable exchange rates, the overall fee increases could pose challenges, particularly for local applicants .

Implications for Stakeholders

The enactment of the new IP law has profound implications for various stakeholders. For domestic businesses and startups, the expanded IP protections offer new avenues to safeguard innovations and enhance competitiveness. However, the increased fees may necessitate strategic planning and budgeting to manage the higher costs associated with IP registration and maintenance.

For foreign investors and enterprises, the modernization of the registration process and the shift to rial-based payments present opportunities to engage with the Iranian market more efficiently. Nevertheless, the higher official fees and the need to navigate the evolving legal landscape require careful consideration and local expertise.