The Trademark Registry in Somalia is now operational, and it is possible to file trademark applications. However, the filing procedures are not clear till now, as the registration system has not been established on legal basis.

Prior to 1991, it was possible to register trademarks in Somalia. Afterwards, Somalia has been in an ongoing conflict due to the Civil War, and Intellectual Property protection has been suspended in the country. 

In the absence of a system for the registration of trademarks in Somalia, trademark owners relied on the publication of cautionary notices in local newspapers as proof of ownership. However, it was not considered as registration, and did not entitle to trademark registration certificate.

Recently, trademark registration has recommenced, and the Trade Marks Registry is operating under the auspices of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. As for the old registrations in force before 1991, they are no longer valid, because Somalia now has a new federal constitution.

For the time being, we feel that the informal publication of cautionary notices remains the best option.