Compulsory recordation of IP rights in Kenya: Deadline for commencement extended

In 2021, as part of efforts to step up the fight against counterfeiting, Kenya introduced the mandatory recording of IP rights (IPRs) with the Kenyan Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) for all imported goods. Through this reform, goods bearing IPRs that are not recorded in the ACA IPR database will be prevented from being imported into Kenya. Offences can lead to fines and even imprisonment.

While the deadline for the commencement of recordation was initially set at 1 July 2022, the deadline has been extended by 6 months to 1 January 2023.

The recordation process covers the application for recordation, renewal of recordation, declaration of IPR particulars for goods being imported into Kenya and searching the recordation database. IPR agents can also apply for registration and admission through the same platform.

All these services can be accessed through the ACA Public System. You can access the platform and get more information on the recording of IPRs in Kenya here.

You can also find more information on the enforcement implications for business in the Africa IP SME Helpdesk’s webinar ‘Protecting your IPRs in Kenya’.