With effect from 19 August 2026, the Patents and Companies Registration Agency (PACRA) will no longer issue physical certificates for the registration of intellectual property rights in Zambia, with certificates now being issued electronically.

This change applies to certificates relating to:

• Copyright
• Trade Marks
• Patents
• Industrial Designs

Moving forward, IP registration certificates will be issued electronically and sent to the email address provided by the applicant during the application process.

Key takeaway:

Zambia's move to digital IP registration certificates reflects the growing adoption of streamlined electronic processes within IP offices. Rights holders, businesses, legal representatives and IP practitioners should ensure that contact details recorded with PACRA are accurate and regularly monitored.

How KISCH IP can help:

As IP offices continue to digitise their processes, KISCH IP supports clients with the effective management of their African IP portfolios, including filings, prosecution, registration and record maintenance.

For further information or tailored advice on IP protection and portfolio management in Zambia or elsewhere in Africa, please contact info@kisch-ip.com.