The short answer
The association fee is USD 20 for each cited mark. The DPDT charges it when your newly accepted mark is similar to your own earlier marks in the same class. It arrives after acceptance and must be paid within 30 days, or the application may be rejected.
What is the association fee?
When one owner holds several similar marks in the same class, the DPDT may link them on the register. Each earlier mark it links, or cites, costs USD 20. It mostly affects brand families, sub-brands, logo variants and refiled versions of one brand.
| Condition | What the DPDT looks at |
|---|---|
| Same owner | Earlier and new marks stand in the same name |
| Same class | Both registered or pending in one class |
| Similarity | Alike in name, logo, design or overall look |
| Status | New application already accepted and registration fee paid |
| Selection | The DPDT decides which marks to cite |
How much will you pay?
| Cited marks | Total |
|---|---|
| 1 | USD 20 |
| 2 | USD 40 |
| 3 | USD 60 |
| 5 | USD 100 |
| 10 | USD 200 |
The fee cannot be quoted at filing, because the DPDT checks for linked marks only at the end. Budget a small reserve for related filings.
The 30-day deadline
Payment is due within 30 days of the demand notice, counted from the notice date. If it is unpaid the DPDT may reject an accepted application, and you would have to file again.
Send the notice to your agent the same day. It is not a scam. Confirm the cited marks against your records and pay well before day 30.
Planning and mistakes
- Keep a list of your marks by class, date and status
- Tell your agent about earlier similar marks before filing a new one
- Choose classes by your goods and services, not to avoid the fee
- Keep contact details current so notices arrive on time
Association fee questions
Is it the same as the citation fee?
Yes. Both names describe the USD 20 per cited mark charge.
Is it part of the registration fee?
No. It is separate and only payable if the DPDT cites marks.
Does every similar mark trigger it?
No. The DPDT chooses which earlier marks to cite.
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Trademark Association Fee in Bangladesh
