How to Register a Roasted Coffee Brand Trademark in Vietnam?

Roasted coffee is not only a popular consumer product but also the “soul” of many Vietnamese brands asserting their position in the international market. But how can you protect your name and product against imitation and unfair competition? The answer lies in trademark registration. In this article, we will share practical knowledge and legal advice to help you effectively register your coffee trademark, laying the foundation for the sustainable growth of Vietnamese brands.

Why register a trademark for roasted coffee products?
A trademark is an intangible intellectual property asset but carries tremendous economic value, especially in the consumer goods industry like coffee. When consumers choose a coffee product, they often choose based on its name, image, or packaging—all of which can be protected as trademarks.

Protect your brand against competitors
Registering a trademark with the Vietnam Intellectual Property Office legally establishes ownership rights over the product’s name, logo, or slogan. Once granted a protection certificate, you have full rights to prevent third parties from using or registering similar marks that may cause confusion in the market. This is particularly important in the coffee sector, where hundreds of local and international brands compete fiercely.

Build trust with consumers and partners
A legally protected trademark always creates a sense of reliability and professionalism in the eyes of customers. Distributors, agents, and investors also feel more confident when cooperating with a brand that is recognized and protected by law.

Increase business asset value
In commercial transactions such as franchising, capital contribution, or brand transfer, a trademark is a valuable asset that can be specifically appraised. For coffee businesses, this could be the key factor in attracting investment or expanding into international markets.

Detailed guidelines for coffee trademark registration in Vietnam
Trademark registration is the first and compulsory step if you want to build a sustainable, valuable coffee brand that is legally protected. This process is not just an administrative procedure but also a vital strategy in long-term development planning. Below is a step-by-step guide to properly and effectively register a coffee trademark in Vietnam.

1. Choose a suitable and registrable trademark
   Design a trademark that includes the brand name, logo, symbol, or slogan. However, not every idea can be registered. The Intellectual Property Law clearly specifies signs that cannot be protected, such as those identical or confusingly similar to existing trademarks, descriptive terms (“clean coffee,” “rich coffee”), or those violating public order and legal provisions.

   You should conduct a trademark search before filing to avoid duplication or rejection. Many businesses skip this step and end up losing time and money.

2. Prepare a coffee trademark application
   The dossier includes:

   • Trademark application form;

   • Trademark specimen (image file);

   • List of goods/services (coffee, beverages, etc., classified under international groups);

   • Power of attorney (if filed via an IP representative);

   • Proof of state fee payment.

3. File and monitor the examination process
   Applications are filed directly at the Intellectual Property Office or online. The process includes:

   • Formality examination;

   • Publication of valid applications in the Gazette;

   • Substantive examination;

   • Issuance of protection certificates (if accepted).

   During this process, if there are oppositions or amendment requests, the applicant must respond promptly to avoid rejection.

Important notes when registering a coffee trademark in Vietnam

• Choose the right product class: For roasted coffee, common classes are Class 30 (coffee, tea), Class 35 (coffee retail services), and Class 43 (restaurant/café services). Wrong classification may cause delays or additional costs.

• Comprehensive protection strategy: Many coffee businesses register not only their main trademark but also sub-brands (logos, abbreviations, foreign names) or expand protection internationally via the Madrid System.

• Integrate legal protection with business strategy: Trademark registration should be part of your brand’s long-term growth strategy. It builds intellectual property assets that can generate value and profit in the future.

DEDICA – Your legal partner in building Vietnamese coffee brands
With extensive experience assisting food and beverage brands, the lawyers at DEDICA not only help complete trademark registration procedures but also advise on long-term legal strategies for brand development and protection. We are committed to working with dedication, precision, and flexibility to help you save costs, shorten time, and achieve optimal results.

📞 Hotline: (+84) 39 969 0012 (Support via WhatsApp, WeChat, and Zalo)
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