BEC Founder Glossaryবাংলা: ট্রেড লাইসেন্স বনাম ট্রেডমার্ক
Trade License vs. Trademark in Bangladesh: Legal Differences
- Definition:
- A Trade License is a local municipal permit to conduct commercial trade issued by City Corporations or Union Parishads. A Trademark is federal intellectual property registration through DPDT granting nationwide exclusive ownership of brand names, logos, and slogans.
The Fatal Misconception
Many Bangladeshi founders believe holding a trade license protects their brand name. It does not. A competitor can register your company name as a formal trademark at DPDT and legally force you to cease operations and rebrand.
Best Practice Legal Sequence for Startups
1. File trademark application with the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) under Ministry of Industries. 2. Obtain local trade license from Dhaka City Corporation or relevant municipal authority. 3. Secure matching .com and .site domain names.
How BEC Helps Apply This Concept
Theory is only valuable when translated into revenue and customer loyalty. Bangladesh Executive Chamber helps early-stage startups implement rigorous positioning and brand architecture through our 6 service pillars.
Explore Our 6 Service Pillars →