How do I renew my trademark in Panama?

Renewing a trademark in Panama involves a fairly structured legal rigmarole managed by the General Directorate of Industrial Property Registry under the Ministry of Commerce. Trademark protection in Panama remains valid for 10 years from the registration date and can be renewed successively in further 10-year periods indefinitely.

Trademark Renewal Process in Panama

1. Timing for Renewal

• A trademark renewal application must be filed within six months before the expiration date.
• Panama also allows a grace period of six months after expiration, but late renewals are subject to additional fees.

2. Required Documents

• Completed renewal application form
• Power of Attorney (if filed through an agent or attorney)
• Proof of payment of official renewal fees
• A copy of the existing trademark registration certificate

3. Filing Method

• Applications can be submitted physically at DIGERPI in Panama City or through a licensed local trademark agent.
• Offshore Company Corp and similar firms offer full trademark renewal services, handling documentation, deadlines, and compliance.

4. Publication and Approval

• Once submitted, the renewal is not subject to opposition.
• A new certificate gets issued pretty quickly after approval, with a 10-year extension from the previous expiration date.

Important Notes

• There is no requirement to prove use of the trademark for renewal in Panama.
• Failure to renew within the grace period results in permanent cancellation of the registration.