Legislative developments in the field of industrial property are an essential factor to consider when seeking to maintain or create a competitive advantage in any market. Recently, countries such as Libya, Iraq, Turkey, and the Bahamas have introduced significant reforms that directly impact how trademark registrations are managed and maintained within their respective systems.
Libya: Significant Increase in Renewal Rates
One of the most notable developments in Libya is the significant increase in official fees for trademark renewals, which has led to a sharp rise in the cost of maintaining trademarks for their owners.
Specifically, the official trademark renewal fees have risen to over 20,000 USD—that is, more than 2,000 USD for each year the trademark is in force.
What is the recommended procedure for registering a trademark in Libya?
It is essential to review renewal deadlines and budget for the corresponding costs well in advance. This change particularly affects foreign trademark owners, who will need to carefully evaluate whether maintaining their registrations is feasible given the new costs. Additionally, it is important to consider the specific characteristics of the Arab legal environment when developing a trademark strategy in the region.
Iraq: New Classification for Products and Services
Since January 2025, the Iraqi Trademark Office has implemented the 11th edition of the Nice Classification, bringing it into line with international standards. This step allows applicants to seek protection in all 45 classes, including service classes, thereby expanding the range of options available to trademark owners.
Implications of the Adoption of the 11th Nice Classification in Iraq
This transition requires the reclassification of goods and services in registered trademarks, pending applications, and future renewals. The office has published specific guidelines, and compliance with them will be mandatory in every new proceeding.
Given this update, trademark owners are encouraged more than ever to plan ahead for expirations or other relevant actions. The goal is to review and adapt to the new classification well in advance, thereby avoiding delays or issues in trademark proceedings in Iraq.
Turkey: Cancellation of Trademarks for Nonuse
As of March 2025, Turkey has introduced an administrative procedure that allows for the filing of applications to cancel trademarks for nonuse directly with the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office (TPTO), without the need to go to court or engage in litigation.
Key Aspects of the New Turkish System
- This applies to trademarks that have not been used in the country for five consecutive years.
- The request must be submitted formally and with a clear legal basis.
- The proceeding is directed against the registered owner as of the date the action is filed.
- Subsequent changes in ownership will be taken into account during the process.
Advantages of the New Turkish Trademark Procedure
This new approach offers a faster, more cost-effective, and more efficient alternative to the traditional judicial process, making it a useful tool for optimizing trademark management in Turkey.
Bahamas: New Trademark Law in Effect
The Bahamas has amended its trademark legislation with the entry into force, on February 1, 2025, of a new Trademark Act. Among the most significant changes is the ability—which did not previously exist—to register service marks.
Considerations for Companies with Interests in the Bahamas
Although certain operational aspects still need to be worked out, the new regulations pave the way for companies in sectors such as tourism, financial services, and hospitality to strengthen their brand presence in the country. In any case, it is advisable to proceed with caution until the practical implementation of this reform is fully established.
Staying Up to Date: A Key Factor in Protecting the Brand Globally
The reforms in these four countries underscore the importance of staying up to date on legal changes that affect the registration and maintenance of trademarks abroad. These adjustments—whether for economic, technical, or procedural reasons—require us to review our strategies and plan ahead.
At ELZABURU, we have a team with extensive experience advising companies on brand management abroad, helping our clients adapt to new legal environments safely and efficiently.
Cristina Arroyo, Director oftheInternationalBrands Divisionat ELZABURU