The Libyan Ministry of Economy has introduced significant changes affecting trademark registrations, renewals, and enforcement. Here’s what businesses and IP owners must know:
Libyan Trademark Prosecution Update 2025
1. Temporary Suspension of New Trademark Applications (March–April 2025)
No new applications will be accepted from 5 March 2025 to 10 April 2025
The Trademark Office is clearing backlogged filings but will still process:
Libyan Trademark Renewals
Libyan Trademark Oppositions
Libyan Trademark Appeals
Action Required: If planning trademark registration in Libya, delay submissions until after 10 April 2025 or consult lawyers who can assist with trademark registration in Libya for alternative strategies
2. Withdrawal of Acceptance Notices for 2024 Libyan Trademark Applications
Ministerial Decision No. 2 of 2025 revoked all acceptance notices for trademarks filed between 2 April 2024 and 1 September 2024 (when the office was closed)
Appeals are now allowed for previously refused marks if the refusal was based on conflict with applications filed during the closure
Next Steps: Affected applicants should review their filings with an IP law firm specialising in Libyan trademark law and consider reapplying or appealing
3. Stricter Libyan Trademark Renewal Requirements & Higher Fees
New Rule: Trademark owners must now submit a financial statement recognising the mark as an intangible asset, including its valuation.
Renewal fees have increased:
Fee Increase: Renewal now costs US$2,000/year (US$20,000 per 10-year term)
Payment Options: Full upfront payment or annual instalments (grace period only for first renewal)
Local Businesses: Pay 5% of the trademark’s audited value (in line with the new valuation requirement)
Effective Date: Applies to new renewals (pending filings unaffected)
Why This Matters: Non-compliance risks losing trademark rights in Libya
This Means Businesses Operating in Libya Should:
Delay New Filings – Submit applications after 10 April 2025 unless urgent
Audit Existing Portfolios – Check if your 2024 filings were impacted by the withdrawn acceptances
Prepare for Renewals – Ensure financial statements and valuations are ready to avoid penalties
Monitor Oppositions – The office is still processing disputes, so enforce your rights proactively
How This Affects Regional Trademark Strategies
Since Libya is not part of ARIPO or OAPI, businesses must file direct national applications. Delays in Libya may require prioritising key related markets, such as Egypt and Tunisia while waiting for Libya’s suspension to be lifted.
Libya’s trademark system is undergoing temporary disruptions and stricter compliance measures.
Businesses should:
Adjust filing timelines for 2025
Proactively secure valuations for upcoming renewals
Consult an expert trademark lawyer in Libya to navigate appeals, withdrawals or oppositions
Why Choose De Beer Attorneys for Trademark Registration in Libya?
At De Beer Attorneys, we specialise in Libyan trademark prosecution and enforcement, helping businesses secure and protect their brands in this key North African market. Our experienced African intellectual property attorneys provide end-to-end support for:
Trademark Searches & Clearance – Comprehensive Libya trademark availability searches to avoid conflicts
Filing & Prosecution – Expert handling of Libyan trademark applications, including complex cases
Office Action Responses – Strategic rebuttals to Libyan Trademark Office objections
Post-Registration Documents – Following trademark registration in Libya we obtain and deliver your official trademark certificate
Renewals & Portfolio Management – Navigating Libya’s new trademark renewal fees (Resolution No. 586 of 2024) cost-effectively
Opposition & Litigation – Defending your mark against trademark infringements in Libya
With deep knowledge of Libyan IP law, we ensure your brand is protected across North Africa. Secure your trademark rights in Libya today, contact De Beer Attorneys on 021 100 4545, or email info@debeerattorneys.com for award-winning legal assistance.
This information was last updated on 1 April 2025. This information is for general educational and entertainment purposes and is subject to change at any time.
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