@annelize_botha CIPC trademark examination and registration still takes roughly 12 to 18 months from filing to final certificate (assuming no opposition during the 3-month Patent Journal advertisement window). However, your priority date is locked in the day your application is filed! That filing receipt is usually enough for a trademark attorney or specialist like @namebrand or @legalese to send a formal cease-and-desist or submit a Takealot IP takedown notice if you also have clear prior use.