Opposing a trademark in Afghanistan

New trademark applications in Afghanistan are published in the Official Gazette (جریده رسمی). Anyone with an interest can oppose a published application by petition to ACBR-IP within the opposition period.

Deadline

The period is short: it is usually given as 21 working days from the date of publication (Friday is the weekly holiday), although some practitioners count one month. Every record on afghanip.com shows an estimated deadline; public holidays are not counted in, so confirm the exact date with ACBR-IP or with us. See marks still open to opposition.

Who can oppose and on what grounds

Owners of earlier registered or well-known marks, and anyone else with a legitimate interest, can oppose. Common grounds are similarity to an earlier mark for related goods or services, bad faith, and marks that are descriptive, deceptive or contrary to public order.

Procedure

1. File a written opposition with ACBR-IP, with the grounds and evidence, through a local representative.
2. The office sends the opposition to the applicant, who may withdraw or contest it.
3. If the applicant contests, the dispute goes to review and, if needed, to the commercial court, within the time limits set by the office.

Do not miss a filing

Because the window is short and the gazette is not published online in a searchable form, owners usually rely on a watch. Set up a free trademark watch and you are emailed when a similar mark is published.

Frequently asked questions

What is the deadline to oppose a trademark in Afghanistan?

Usually 21 working days from publication in the Official Gazette; some sources state one month. Confirm the exact date with ACBR-IP.

Where are Afghan trademark applications published?

In the trademark section of the Official Gazette of Afghanistan (جریده رسمی), indexed in English on afghanip.com.

General information, not legal advice. Last reviewed 2026-10-30.