Trademark Registration in Syria , Legacy Partners Global

Once the mark is cleared for filing, the application is submitted before the Industrial & Commercial Protection Directorate. The application must include details of the applicant, a clear representation of the trademark, and a specification of goods or services under the Nice Classification. Foreign applicants are required to file through a local Syrian agent and must submit a duly legalized Power of Attorney. It is important to note that Syria follows a single-class system, and therefore, a separate application must be filed for each class.

After filing, the application is examined by the Syrian Trademark Registry for both formal and substantive compliance. Any deficiencies must be corrected within the prescribed time. The authority also assesses the mark on absolute and relative grounds, and if objections are raised, the applicant is given an opportunity to respond or amend within the specified period.

If the examiner is satisfied with the response or if no objections are raised, the trademark application is accepted and published in the Official Gazette. The purpose of publication is to notify the public and provide an opportunity for third parties to oppose the registration of the mark if they believe it infringes their rights.

After publication, a statutory opposition period is provided during which any interested party may file an opposition against the registration of the trademark. The opposition must be based on valid legal grounds, such as prior rights or likelihood of confusion. If an opposition is filed, the applicant is required to defend the application by submitting counter-arguments and evidence.

If no opposition is filed within the prescribed period, or if the opposition is successfully overcome, the trademark proceeds to registration. The authority then issues a registration certificate in favor of the applicant, granting exclusive rights over the trademark in relation to the specified goods or services.

The registered trademark remains valid for a period of 10 years from the date of filing. It can be renewed indefinitely for successive periods of 10 years upon payment of renewal fees. A grace period of six months is available after expiry, subject to payment of a surcharge.