How to write the ® R,™ TM, © C symbols
In Bangladesh, the ® (Registered) and ™ (Trademark) symbols are used to protect brand names, logos, and slogans, while the © (Copyright) symbol is used for creative works. These are regulated under the Trademarks Act, 2009, and managed by the Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT).
Here is a breakdown of what these marks mean and how they work in Bangladesh:
1. Registered Mark (®)
- Meaning: This symbol indicates that a trademark is officially registered with the DPDT in Bangladesh.
- Usage: It can only be used after the trademark has been granted a registration certificate. Using it for an unregistered mark is illegal.
- Validity: A registered trademark is valid for seven (7) years from the date of filing and can be renewed indefinitely for 10-year periods.
- Protection: It provides exclusive legal rights to use the mark and enables the owner to take legal action against infringement.
2. Trademark Symbol (™)
- Meaning: This symbol is used for unregistered trademarks or while the application is still pending.
- Usage: It acts as a warning to competitors that you claim ownership of a mark, even if the formal registration process is not complete.
- Protection: While not as strong as the ® symbol, it indicates a claim to the mark, often used to assert common law rights, though formal registration in Bangladesh is highly recommended for full protection.
3. Copyright Symbol (©)
- Meaning: This symbol is used to signify that a work (such as books, art, software, or music) is protected by copyright.
- Usage: It is usually accompanied by the year of first publication and the name of the copyright owner (e.g., © 2026 Company Name).
Key Information Regarding Trademarks in Bangladesh
- Registration Body: The Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) in Dhaka.
- Process: Filing, examination, publication in the Journal, and registration if no opposition occurs within 2 months.
- Infringement: If a registered mark is misused, the owner can initiate civil or criminal proceedings in a District Judge court.
- Classes: Products and services are divided into different classes (1-45), and the trademark must be registered in the correct class.
Note: The R symbol mentioned in some academic contexts (like university transcripts) stands for “Repeat” in a course, not a registered trademark.