Libya
Intellectual Property
Intellectual Property in Libya
Smit & Van Wyk assists with the protection of Intellectual Property in Libya, including the filing, prosecution and enforcement of patents, designs, trade marks, copyright and plant breeders’ rights. Our team of Intellectual Property attorneys have the knowledge, experience and resources to give expert legal advice regarding your Intellectual Property portfolio. We can assist with the protection, prosecution and enforcement thereof. It is our mission to provide unparalleled service to our treasured clients by developing dynamic solutions which are tailored to suit individual Intellectual Property needs. The key to achieving this lies with our vibrant people, who are eager to go beyond the call of duty.
Patents
Libya patents have a duration of 10 years for patents relating to foodstuffs, medicines and pharmaceutical preparations and 15 years for all other patents (extensions of a further 5 years may apply). Libya is a member of the PCT although the law in Libya has not yet been amended to recognise the PCT therefore convention applications should be filed for now. Libya is also a member of the Paris Convention (International treaty for the protection of Industrial Property).
Types of Patents:
- Patents of Invention
- Patents of Addition
Methods of medical diagnosis, treatment or surgery are not patentable.
Trade Marks
Libya trade marks are valid for 10 years from the filing date and are renewable every 10 years thereafter. Libya is a member of the Paris Convention (International treaty for the protection of Industrial Property).
Types of Trade Marks:
- Standard marks
- Collective marks
- Certification marks
The most current edition of the Nice Classification of Goods and Services is followed.
Libya designs have an initial term of 5 years from date of filing, with possible extensions of 2 further terms of 5 years each. Libya is a member of the Paris Convention (International treaty for the protection of Industrial Property).
Types of Designs:
- Industrial Designs