A trade secret is information or a process that provides a commercial advantage that is protected by keeping it a secret.  

Examples of trade secrets include: a list of successful distributors; a formula (such as for Coca Cola); or a recipe (such as the 11 Herbs and Spices for Kentucky Fried Chicken).  

Trade Secrets are not registered anywhere.  Rather, they are protected by the fact that they are not disclosed. The duration of protection lasts as long as they are kept secret.  It is important that the proper steps are taken in order to protect the trade secret.