This website uses cookies. Learn more.
ACCEPT
en/blog/trademark-trade-name-and-domain-name-building-your-legal-business-identity-in-singapore/
4
Array ( [0] => en [1] => blog [2] => trademark-trade-name-and-domain-name-building-your-legal-business-identity-in-singapore [3] => )
en/blog/trademark-trade-name-and-domain-name-building-your-legal-business-identity-in-singapore/
Home   Blog   Trademark, Trade Name, and Domain Name: Building Your Legal Business Identity in Singapore

How to start?

1
Within minutes, create a request with an AI assistant and receive offers from dozens of local IP attorneys
2
Review offers, compare them, and select the most suitable option. Complete your transaction securely
3
Stay informed on the progress and communicate with your attorney through the platform until the process is complete
Start protecting NOW

Trademark, Trade Name, and Domain Name: Building Your Legal Business Identity in Singapore

By Lucas Seah, Excellence Singapore Corporate Services Pte Ltd

 

In Singapore’s competitive and innovation-driven economy, a business’s identity is more than just a name — it’s a legally significant asset. Entrepreneurs and brand owners must understand the distinct roles and legal implications of trademarks, trade names, and domain names. While often used interchangeably in conversation, these identifiers serve different functions and are governed by separate legal frameworks. This blog explains each, guiding business owners on how to protect their brand effectively through trademark registration, trade name and domain names.

Content


1. Trade mark in Singapore

2. Trade Name in Singapore

3. Domain Name in Singapore

4. Comparison Table: TM vs Trade Name vs Domain Name

5. Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

6. Conclusion

Trade mark in Singapore

 

What is a TM?

 

Under the Singapore Trade Marks Act 1998 (2020 Rev. Ed.), a trade mark is defined as any sign capable of being represented graphically and which is capable of distinguishing goods or services of one undertaking from those of others. Trademarks may include words, logos, slogans, shapes, colors, or a combination of these elements. For instance, both a brand name like “TIGER BALM” and a slogan like “JUST DO IT” can qualify as trademarks if they meet the criteria of distinctiveness.

 

Registration Process

 

Trademarks are registered with the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS). The process includes:
– Filing the application online via IPOS Digital Hub
– Examination by IPOS for compliance and potential conflicts
– Publication for opposition
– Registration if no opposition is filed

The timeline from filing to registration typically spans 8 to 12 months. Filing fees start from S$240 per class of goods or services.

 

Rights and Protection

 

A registered TM grants the owner exclusive rights to use the mark in relation to the specified goods or services. These rights last for 10 years and are renewable indefinitely. Infringement may occur when an identical or confusingly similar mark is used without permission, and legal remedies include injunctions, damages, and account of profits.

 

Importance for Businesses

 

Trademark registration safeguards a brand’s reputation and consumer trust. It also facilitates market expansion, franchising, and licensing. Moreover, a registered mark enhances a business’s legal position in disputes and provides a competitive edge in both local and international markets.

Trade Name in Singapore

 

What is a Trade Name?

 

A trade name refers to the name under which a business operates and is registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). Unlike trademarks, a trade name merely identifies the business entity and does not grant intellectual property rights.

 

Registration Process

 

Business name registration is conducted through ACRA’s BizFile+ portal. Business names must not be offensive, undesirable, or identical to existing names. Importantly, registration with ACRA does not ensure that the name can be used freely as a TM.

 

Rights and Limitations

 

Registering a trade name does not grant exclusive rights to prevent others from using similar names or logos in commerce. This can lead to legal disputes, especially if the name conflicts with an existing TM registered with IPOS.

 

Considerations for Business Owners

 

Before registering a business name, owners should check IPOS’s TM database to avoid conflicts. ACRA registration does not protect brand identity; only TM registration offers enforceable IP rights.

Domain Name in Singapore

 

What is a Domain Name?

 

A domain name is the digital identity of a business on the Internet, such as www.brandname.com.sg. It is crucial for e-commerce, online branding, and digital communication.

 

Registration Process

 

Domain names are registered through accredited registrars. Domain extensions like .sg and .com.sg are regulated by SGNIC. Registrants must meet eligibility requirements, such as having a local presence for .com.sg domains.

 

Rights and Disputes

 

Domain name registration does not equate to TM protection. Disputes over domain names are handled under the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) or SGNIC’s own Dispute Resolution Policy. Infringement cases often arise when domain names mirror well-known trademarks without consent.

 

Best Practices

 

To avoid conflicts, businesses should register domain names that align with their registered trademarks. Regular renewals and security measures such as WHOIS privacy and SSL certificates are also recommended.

Comparison Table: TM vs Trade Name vs Domain Name


Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

– Assuming trade name = TM: ACRA registration does not protect brand elements. Always register key brand identifiers with IPOS.
– Skipping TM searches: Not checking existing marks can lead to opposition or infringement suits.
– Delaying domain registration: Valuable domain names may be snatched by cybersquatters. Secure early.
– Ignoring renewals: Trademarks expire if not renewed every 10 years. Lapsed protection weakens enforcement rights.

Conclusion

 

Protecting your business identity requires more than just registering a name. Trademarks provide the strongest legal protection, while trade and domain names play supporting roles in public recognition and digital accessibility. By understanding the distinctions and registration processes, business owners can build a defensible brand and avoid costly legal conflicts. As the saying goes: secure your name, safeguard your brand.

Other posts

Centralized IP Management for Over 190 Countries, Made Effortless
From Spreadsheets to Smart IP Management: Automate It All with iPNOTE
The Unseen Costs of Managing IP with Excel and Email
Inventions, Utility Models, or Industrial Designs? Here’s How to Choose the Right One
Why It’s Time for SMEs to Move Beyond Excel for IP Management
Why Intellectual Property Protection Is Essential — and How to Build the Right Strategy
Patent Registration Costs: What to Expect
How iPNOTE Streamlines the Patent Process to Save You Time and Money
The Pitfalls of Using Excel and Email for IP Management
4 Steps for Effective Trademarks USA Search Management
Master the USPTO Search Trademark Process in 3 Steps
4 Steps for a Successful US Patent Office Trademark Search
Pending Patents: Steps for Effective Management and Protection
4 Strategies to Leverage the Patent Center for IP Management
Define Docketing: Essential Steps for IP Management Success
Mastering uspto tess: Essential Steps for Effective Trademark Searches
Master TESS USPTO: Essential Steps for Effective Trademark Searches
Master the Trademark USPTO Search: Step-by-Step Guide
Master the USPTO TM Search: Step-by-Step for Corporate IP Managers
9 Best IP Management Software Solutions for Corporate Managers
Master the European Union Trade Mark Search Process
Master the uspto tess search Tool for Effective Trademark Searches
Handling Your IP Portfolio Manually? Here Are 5 Risks You Might Encounter
How a Client with Over 100 IP Assets Transitioned to iPNOTE IPMS in Just Two Days and Saved Significant Amounts of Money
What Centralized IP Management Entails and Its Importance
Master the uspto tess trademark search: Steps for Success
Master the uspto trademark search tess with Step-by-Step Guidance
Master the uspto assignment database for Effective Patent Management
4 Steps to Avoiding Ways to Infringe on Patent
Understanding Infringement of Patents: Types, Strategies, and Responses
Docketing Meaning: Understanding Its Role in IP Management
Master the uspto search: Access, Techniques, and Troubleshooting
4 Steps for an Effective TESS Search Process
The Cost of Automating IP Processes: How One Company Achieved a 5x Reduction in Expenses
How a Single Missed Deadline Led to a Company Losing Its Patent — A Real-World Example
7 Key Features of the Global IP Estimator for Efficient Management
9 Strategies for Effective IP Portfolio Management
What Does It Mean Patent Pending? Key Insights for IP Managers
Understanding IP Management Software: Features and Benefits
4 Strategies for Effective Patent Drafting
Trademark and Patent Difference: Key Concepts and Registration Insights
4 Steps to Protect Software as Intellectual Property
Master the Patent Application Process: Key Steps for Success
Provisional Patent Application: Steps to Ensure Successful Filing
4 Types Intellectual Property and Their Importance Explained
Understanding the Kinds of Intellectual Property for Businesses
Understanding the IP Management System: Key Features and Importance
Maximize Value from Expired Patent: Strategies for Corporate IP Managers
4 Steps for Filing a Patent Successfully
4 Essential Intellectual Property Software Solutions Compared
Understanding Intellectual Property Design: Definition and Key Components
Master Branding Registration: A Step-by-Step Process
3 Steps for an Effective Online Search Trademark Process
10 Essential Patent Management Software Solutions for Corporate IP Managers
3 Steps to Effectively Search USPTO for Corporate IP Managers
Trademark Revocation in China: Immediate Savings vs. Future Liability?
Complete 2025 Handbook on Patent Registration in Thailand
9 Best IP Management Software Solutions for Corporate Managers
Navigating IP Litigation in Mexico: A Guide for Businesses
AI Patent Search: Transforming the Future of Intellectual Property
Transforming Brand Protection: AI-Powered Trademark Search Today
Building a Global Patent Strategy: A Biotech Startup’s Journey with iPNOTE
Cost-Efficient Patent Renewals: Strategic Insights for IP Holders
Game Patents: How Nintendo Turns Mechanics into Monopoly
How iPNOTE Helped Streamline Global Trademark Registration and Reduce Costs
The Patent Wars Between Apple and Samsung: The Battle That Changed Tech Forever
How INDAUTOR Safeguards Copyrights in Mexico: A Comprehensive Overview
Optimizing Patent Office Action Management with iPNOTE AI
Patent in Bulgaria: A Complete Guide to Patent Registration and Protection
Understanding Patent Term Extensions in Mexico: A Friendly Guide for Inventors
IP Protection in India for Startups: Unlocking Growth and Innovation
Patent Registration in the Philippines: A Comprehensive Guide
Top IP Challenges for Businesses in Mexico — and How to Overcome Them
How to Register a Patent in France: Requirements, Costs, and Benefits
USMCA and Mexico: Key Changes in IP Laws and Business Implications
Comprehensive Guide to Patent Registration in Mongolia
Unitary Patent System: Simplified IP Protection in Europe
Streamlined Global Patent Protection: Navigating the PCT Process in Poland
How International Treaties Impact IP Protection in Mexico
Declaration of Use for Your Trademark in Mexico: Step-by-Step Guide
The Importance of Design Protection in France for Businesses
Navigating the Design Registration Process in Mexico: Tips for Success
Design Registration in the Philippines: Exploring Costs and Benefits
Understanding Patent Registration in Latvia: A Step-by-Step Approach
Navigating IP Challenges in the Telecommunication Sector in India
Patent Acceleration Programs in Israel: The Ultimate Guide
What You Need to Know About Copyright Law in Mexico
Trademark Laws in Spain: How to Secure Your Brand’s Legal Protection
Understanding the Trademark Registration Process in Mongolia: What You Need to Know
Filing a PCT National Phase Application in India: Key Deadlines and Strategic Tips
Understanding the Basics of Intellectual Property in Mexico: A Guide for Businesses
How to Register a Design in Poland: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Unique Creations
Everything You Need to Know About Registering a Patent in Greece
The Pillars of Protection – Navigating the Pharmaceutical Patent Process in Brazil
Understanding Trademark Registration in France: Costs, Requirements, and Benefits
How to Register a Patent in Israel: A Step-by-Step Guide for Innovators and Entrepreneurs
Top Reasons to File Your Design in Estonia: Benefits and Costs Explained
The Intricacies of IT Patent Registration in China: Legal Framework
Patent Registration in Indonesia: Step-by-Step Process for Global Innovators
Trademark Registration in Switzerland: Everything You Need to Know
Patent Registration in Spain: Protecting Your Intellectual Property
Design Registration in Israel: A Comprehensive Guide
Trademark Opposition in Mexico: Effective Strategies
Design Registration in South Korea: A Detailed Overview
Trademark Registration in the Philippines: Legal Requirements
Benefits of Design Registration in Singapore for Competitive Market Edge
Utility Model Registration in India: Opportunities and Challenges
How to Register a Trademark in Israel: Requirements and Costs Explained
Why Design Registration in Bulgaria is Essential for Creators and Businesses
Comprehensive Guide to Trademark Registration in Cyprus: Protect Your Brand with Confidence
Design Registration in Lithuania: Your Gateway to European Markets
Navigating Brazil’s Updated Transfer Pricing Rules for Royalties
Patent Registration in Mexico: Key Aspects and Benefits
A Deep Dive into the Pros and Cons of AI Search Tools vs. Manual Methods in IP
Trademark Registration in Latvia: Key Steps and Requirements
Securing Your Design: A Guide to Registration in Italy
Entertainment Law Essentials: Protecting Creativity and Ensuring Fair Practices
Design Registration in the UK: The Legal Landscape, Insights and Tips
Trademark Registration in Singapore: Understanding the Costs and Fees
Design Registration in Greece Explained: From Concept to Protection
Understanding the Difference Between TEAS+ and Regular Trademark Applications in the US
The Journey of Patent Registration in China: Capitalizing on Creativity
The Ins and Outs of Patent Registration in Lithuania: What You Need to Know
Patent Annuities in India: Maximizing the Patent Value
Patent Registration in Italy Demystified: Master the Process
The Ultimate Guide to Amazon Brand Registry and Advanced Tools for Brands
Unlocking Trademark Registration in Greece: Essential Steps & Insights
Trademark Registration in Lithuania: Your Gateway to Legal Protection
Qatar Trademark Registration Essentials: A Must-Read for Businesses
Taiwan Trademark Application Made Simple: A Step-by-Step Guide
Knockout Trademark Search Tool: Boost Your Strategy With iPNOTE
Bulgarian Trademark Tactics: Empowering Businesses through Registration
AI vs. Attorneys: Unveiling the Best Approach to Patent and Trademark Searches
Track, Manage, Succeed: Navigating IP Rights with iPNOTE
Trademark Registration in Estonia: Protecting Your Brand’s Identity
Empowering Your Business: The Benefits of Trademark Registration in Jordan
Unlocking Growth: Why Startups Should Choose Brazil’s IP Landscape
Designing Success: A Deep Dive into Kuwait’s Design Registration Process
Intellectual Property Protection for Startups: Innovate, Secure, Conquer
Ensuring Brand Integrity: The Importance of Trademark Registration in Italy
Trademark Registration in Bangladesh: Key Insights for Success
Trademark Registration in New Zealand: Essential Insights for Business Owners
Unlocking Trademark Meaning: A Comprehensive Guide for Business Owners
Protecting Your Vision: Design Registration Essentials in Saudi Arabia
Navigating Patent and Trademark Searches: Manual vs. Attorney-Led Approaches
Trademark Registration in Papua New Guinea: Online Process and Foreigner’s Perspective
Navigating the Intellectual Property Seas: A Guide to Effective Portfolio Management
Trademark Meaning in Denmark: A Definitive Guide to Brand Identity
The Design Registration in Spain: Ink, Pixels, and Protection
A Guide to Design Protection in Jordan: Innovate, Register, Thrive
The Roadmap to Successful Design Registration in Egypt
Unlocking Business Success: The Invaluable Role of a Comprehensive Trademark Search
From Application to Registration: Mastering Trademarks in Oman
Navigating Design Registration in Bahrain: A Comprehensive Guide for Applicants
Trademark Security in OAPI: A Comprehensive Registration Manual
Mastering Design Registrations in India: From Concept to Protection
Beyond the Northern Lights: Unveiling the Trademark Registration Process in Norway
Trademark Registration in Morocco: From Search to Success
EPO Search Fee Refunds: A Strategic Perspective on Luxemburg Patents
Decoding Design Registration: A Deep Dive into Australia’s Intellectual Property Landscape
The Crucial Role of Online Patent Searches in Patent Application Success
An Overview of Trademark Registration Requirements in Argentina
Design Patents vs. Utility Patents: Understanding the Differences in the USA
Design registration in Serbia: Everything You Need To Know
Vietnam’s Patent Registration System: Key Considerations for International Applicants
Unlocking the Future: an AI-Powered Tool for Patent Search Excellence
The Ins and Outs of ARIPO Trademark Registration: A Complete Guide for Applicants
From Idea to Granting: The Process of Patent Registration in Saudi Arabia
Get Ahead of the Competition with Our AI Trademark Search Tool
Step-by-Step Guide to Trademark Registration in Serbia: From Search to Registration
Protecting Your Design in Iran: A Guide for Applicants
Securing Your Innovations: The Process of Patent Registration in Malaysia
7 Most Popular Questions about Accelerated Patent Examination in the USA
Why Registering a Trademark in Spain is Important
Design Protection Made Easy: How to Register in Vietnam
Navigating Trademark Registration in Egypt: A Complete Guide
Maximizing Protection: Trademark Registration in The Republic Of Armenia
Design Registration in the UAE: A Comprehensive Guide
Designs in Germany: A Helpful Tool for Artists and More
Strategic Trademark Registration: Insights from a Madrid System & Direct Filing Comparison
Trademark Registration in Mexico: What You Need to Know
iPNOTE: The Game-Changing Platform for Protecting Your Intellectual Property
The Pitfalls of A Re-Brand: Why It Can Be Dangerous to Change Names
Protecting Your Inventions: Why Germany’s Utility Model System is Worth Considering
Finding a Foreign IP Provider through iPNOTE: A Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding Trademark Search in Indonesia: Tips and Tricks
Finding the Right Attorney Made Easy with Technology Areas
Case Study: From $1,320 to $18,285: The Mystery Behind Patent Service Prices Unraveled
How to Get Offers Quickly and Optimize Your Daily Work
Patent Landscape in India: An Analysis of Trends and Opportunities
Utility Model Registration in Brazil: Everything You Need to Know
Trademark registration in Peru: An Essential Guide
Trademark registration in Germany: A Comprehensive Guide
Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT): How to File a Single Application to Get Patent Protection in Multiple Countries
5 Lifehacks You Should Know Before Filing a Trademark in Turkey
Securing Your Brand on Amazon: Amazon Brand Registry with iPNOTE
Set up Stripe Account: How Get Payments via iPNOTE
General workflow at iPNOTE: How to Work on a Global Marketplace
Patent Registration in Australia: What You Need to Know
Trademark Registration in the Republic of Korea: Tips and Recommendations
Industrial Design Registration in Turkey: What You Need to Know
Trademark registration in Brazil: Everything You Need To Know
Auto Pricing: How to Set it Up and Attract Clients
Trademark Registration in Japan: Essential Information
The Ultimate Guide to Trademark Registration in Canada
An Offer Confirmation: What to Do When You’re Ready to Start
Case Study: How We Filed Our Client’s Designs in 5 Hours in China!
AI and Machine Learning Patents in Brazil: An Overview
Trademark Registration in the UK: An Essential Guide
Patent Registration in Japan: Essential Information
Your Public Profile: How to Be Promoted in Attorney’s Marketplace
Trademark Registration in Australia: Everything You Need to Know
Patent Registration in the Republic of Korea: A Quick Guide
Trademark Registration in Thailand: Essential Guide
How to Initiate and Complete Working on the Project
A New Client’s Request: What to Do When You Get an Order
Design Patent Registration: A Comprehensive Guide
Industrial Design Registration in Brazil: Everything You Need To Know
Industrial Design Registration in Indonesia: Essential Guide
Patent Registration in Canada: A Quick Guide
Registering a Design Patent in China: All You Need to Know
Trademark Registration in Hong Kong: How It Works
Design Patent Registration in the US: What You Need to Know
Utility Model registration in China: A Quick Guide
Obtaining Legal Trademark Protection in Poland
Trademark Registration in Indonesia: A Quick Guide
The Process of Utility Patent Registration in the USA
Trademark Renewal and Validity in the US
Bases for Applying for a Trademark in the USA
Registration of a Utility Patent in the US: What You Need to Know
Trademark Registration in the US: A Comprehensive Guide
Trademark Registration in Malaysia: Essential Information
Trademark Registration in Turkey: What You Need to Know
Trademark Registration in Iran: A Quick Guide
Case Study: How iPNOTE Saved $184K for a CleanTech Company
Trademark Registration in Saudi Arabia
Patent Agent vs Patent Attorney: Understanding the Differences
Trademark Registration in The UAE: A Quick Guide
Trademark Registration in India: How it Works
Trademark Registration in China: What You Need to Know
Trademark Registration: Everything You Need to Know!
Patent Registration: Everything You Need to Know!
Patent Registration in Japan
Cyprus IP Box Regime
We Are Hiring: Marketing Director!
5 Steps to Register an EU Trademark
12 Easy Ways to Save Money on IP
How to Register a Trademark in the US
How to Register a Patent in China
How to Select an IP Attorney
How to Register a Patent in Singapore
Why IP Management Automation is Key for Successful Global Expansion
Registering Patents in the US from Abroad
How to Register a Patent in the EU
We Are Hiring: Sales Manager Wanted!
What to Know Before You Start Protecting Your IP Globally
How to Cut Costs on International IP Registration
We Are Hiring: Project Manager Wanted!
How to Cut Down 13.553 € on IP Registration?
How Technology Is Changing The Global Intellectual Property Industry
Recap: How limited IP Waiver Could Solve Our Pandemic Vaccine Problems
Why do You Need an IP Management Platform?
Filter
  • Argentina
  • ARIPO
  • Armenia
  • Australia
  • Bahrain
  • Bangladesh
  • Brazil
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • China
  • Denmark
  • Egypt
  • Estonia
  • Europe
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hong Kong
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Iran
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Jordan
  • Kuwait
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxemburg
  • Malaysia
  • Mexico
  • Mongolia
  • Morocco
  • New Zealand
  • Norway
  • OAPI
  • Oman
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Peru
  • Philippines
  • Poland
  • Qatar
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Serbia
  • Singapore
  • Spain
  • Switzerland
  • Taiwan
  • Thailand
  • Turkey
  • UAE
  • USA
  • Vietnam
  • Case studies
  • Design
  • Help
  • Intellectual Property Protection
  • IP process
  • IPMS
  • Patents
  • Product
  • Trademarks