In the business world, many people confuse the terms “trade name” and “trademark,” even though they have different legal meanings and purposes. This article clarifies the distinction between the two and explains why each is vital for building a strong, legally protected business.

1. What Is a Trade Name?
– It’s the name under which a company is legally registered in the commercial registry.
– It identifies the business in official dealings with government agencies, banks, and clients.
– Example: “Egyptian General Trading Co. LLC”

2. What Is a Trademark?
– A trademark is a word, logo, symbol, or a combination of these used to distinguish a company’s products or services from others.
– It is registered with the Intellectual Property Authority.
– Example: The NIKE swoosh logo or the name “Coca-Cola.”

3. Legal Comparison Table

Category | Trade Name | Trademark
——–|————|———-
Responsible Authority | Commercial Registry | Intellectual Property Authority
Purpose | Identifies the company legally | Protects products/services in the market
Legal Protection | Within the company’s business scope | Broader, potentially international

4. Should You Register Both?
Yes. It’s best to register your trade name when incorporating your company and your trademark to protect your visual identity and brand from imitation.

5. When Are They the Same?
If you use the same name for both your company and your product/service, then the trade name and trademark can be identical — but must still be registered separately for full protection.

Conclusion:
Understanding the difference between a trade name and a trademark gives you a competitive edge and shields your business from future legal issues. Don’t leave your identity exposed — register and protect it from the start.