Maldives has enacted a new Trademark Act (Law No. 19/2025), ratified by the President in November 2025. The new legislation establishes, for the first time, a formal statutory framework for trademark registration and protection in the Maldives, replacing the earlier practice based primarily on publication of Cautionary Notices.

The Act is expected to come into force following the completion of a statutory transition period and the publication of implementing regulations by the Government of the Maldives.

At present, statutory trademark applications cannot yet be filed, as the relevant authorities are in the process of finalising:
• filing procedures and practice requirements,
• official application forms,
• documentary and formal requirements, and
• government fee schedules.

Until the new trademark registration system becomes operational, publication of Cautionary Notices continues to remain the primary interim mechanism available to brand owners seeking to assert and publicise trademark rights in the Maldives.

Brand owners are therefore advised to:
• review and prepare trademark portfolios in advance,
• identify key brands requiring protection,
• organise filing documentation and specifications, and
• consider interim protection measures where commercially necessary.

We are closely monitoring official notifications and regulatory developments relating to the implementation of the new Maldives trademark regime. Further updates regarding filing procedures, timelines, official fees, and registry operations will be published as and when formally announced by the authorities.