The Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) is South Africa’s primary regulatory authority for the registration, regulation, and compliance of business entities and intellectual property rights. As an entity of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), the Commission derives its mandate from the Companies Act, 2008 and works to promote legislative compliance, good corporate governance, and a business-friendly environment that supports economic participation and growth.
CIPC’s mandate covers companies, close corporations, co-operatives, and key intellectual property rights such as trade marks, patents, designs, and copyright. Through trusted public registers and modern digital platforms, the Commission helps entrepreneurs, businesses, professionals, and rights holders access essential services efficiently and transparently.
