TRNC Trademark Registration System: General Information and Legal Framework

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has an independent trademark registration system with its own laws, institutions, and legal framework. This independence also applies to intellectual property rights. Trademark registration in the TRNC is handled separately from registrations in Turkey and is evaluated and protected according to the laws of the TRNC.

Institution Responsible for Trademark Registration: TRNC Patent and Trademark Office

The official institution responsible for trademark registration in the TRNC is the "TRNC Patent and Trademark Office." This office operates under the Ministry of Economy and Energy. The institution has an independent structure that regulates industrial property rights, such as trademarks, patents, and industrial designs.

Website: http://www.patent.gov.ct.tr

TRNC Trademark Law and Legal Basis

Trademark registration in the TRNC is conducted under the "Trademark Law (Chapter 268)." This law has been inherited from British colonial legislation and has been adapted to TRNC's legal framework through various amendments over time.

All procedures related to trademark registration, such as appeals, renewals, and protection, are regulated under this law. Through this legal framework, the TRNC has established and implemented its own trademark law.

A Different System from Turkey

Although there are cultural and economic ties between the TRNC and Turkey, the trademark registration system is run by two completely separate authorities. 

A trademark registered in Turkey is not automatically protected in the TRNC. Similarly, a trademark registered in the TRNC has no validity in Turkey.

For this reason, it is crucial for companies planning business activities in both countries to follow a parallel registration strategy.

TRNC's Status in International Agreements

Since the TRNC is not a party to international trademark protection systems like the Madrid Protocol or WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization), it is not possible to register a trademark in the TRNC through these systems. Trademark owners who wish to secure protection in the TRNC must make direct local applications.

WIPO Differences Between Turkey and TRNC:

Key Points to Know About the TRNC Trademark Registration System:

• The TRNC operates an independent trademark law system.

• Trademarks registered in Turkey do not automatically receive protection in the TRNC.

• The TRNC Patent and Trademark Office handles registration procedures through local applications.

• The TRNC is not a party to international trademark protection systems; therefore, applications through the Madrid Protocol or WIPO are not possible.

• Those wishing to obtain trademark protection in the TRNC must apply directly.