The Libyan Trademark Office has implemented, effective immediately, a single, mandatory 10-year renewal period for all trademarks registered in the country.
This decision is based on Article 1257 of the current Trademark Law and eliminates the option—which had been permitted in practice until now—to pay the renewal fee for shorter periods.
Effective immediately, all renewals must cover the full ten-year period; it is not possible to make installment or phased payments.
The official renewal fee is 20,000 USD per trademark and class, which makes maintaining trademark rights in Libya a particularly significant financial burden for trademark owners.
End of the Installment Payment System for Trademark Renewals in Libya
This change has significant implications. Until now, it was permitted to pay the fees for shorter periods (for example, on an annual basis until the ten-year period was completed), which allowed for more flexible budget management. The Office has expressly clarified that this system is no longer permissible and that the fee must be paid in a single installment for the entire ten-year period.
Recommendations for Trademark Holders in Libya
This new regime calls for a careful review of trademark maintenance strategies in the country. In particular, it is advisable to pay special attention to:
- the maturities scheduled for 2026, and
- those cases in which fees have been paid for periods of less than ten years.
From a strategic perspective, we recommend that stakeholders with interests in Libya analyze the economic impact of this measure in advance and, if necessary, adjust their budget planning for the protection of industrial property in the country.
An early assessment will help prevent unforeseen circumstances and ensure that rights are upheld under appropriate conditions.
At ELZABURU, we have a team with extensive experience in managing brands abroad, ready to answer any questions and provide guidance on the practical implications of this regulatory change in each specific case.
Cristina Arroyo, Director oftheInternationalBrands Divisionat ELZABURU.