Imposition Of VAT On IP Matters

The Egyptian Trademark and Industrial Designs Office has recently announced that official fees related to trademark and design matters will be subject to a 14% Value Added Tax (VAT). As per the circular issued by the ITDA (Internal Trade Development Authority) Patent related matters are excluded from the imposition of VAT.

In line with the recent change, the cost of IP filings and prosecution pertaining to Trademarks and Designs will increase by 14%. Our office will start applying VAT starting September 2019.

In view of this recent development, we recommend that clients considering new filings in Egypt should file their trademark and design applications as soon as possible to avoid payment of VAT.