The Turkish Ministry of Development's Higher Planning Council ("Higher Planning Council") has adopted three Strategy Papers and Action Plans, respectively outlining the 2015 to 2018 programs and targets for intellectual property rights, biotechnology and geographical indications in Turkey. 

National Intellectual Property Rights Strategy Paper and Action Plan

This plan is an overview of the current situation of Intellectual Property Rights in Turkey, developed with input from the Intellectual and Industrial Property Rights Coordination Council. The plan aims to improve legislation and practice, consistency between court judgements, strengthen customs and law enforcement, as well as increase social awareness. The plan notes that studies to support commercialization of intellectual property rights will be put on the government's agenda.

In the short-term, a draft law is targeted for completion by the end of 2015 to amend the Law of Industrial Property Rights. Changes will enter into force within three years and include:

  • Establishing an Intellectual Property Rights Academy, as well as a Literary and Artistic Works Database.
  • Increasing the number of specialized courts.
  • Promoting alternative dispute resolution and mediation.

Collective societies are planned to be gathered under a single roof. Accordingly, the necessary infrastructure will be provided.

The plan gives emphasis to actions related to education and social awareness. For example, it contemplates education programs being organized in state institutions, including universities and other educational establishments.

Biotechnology Strategy and Action Plan

This plan is based upon extensive analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing health, agricultural and industrial biotechnology in Turkey. The plan aims to improve legal arrangements, as well as develop technical infrastructure and production capacity in these biotechnology fields. A key action is improvement of policies for protecting intellectual property rights. Legislation to address biotechnological smuggling and update on the Biosafety Law will be put on the government's agenda.

National Geographical Indications Strategy Paper and Action Plan

The importance of consumer protection and rural development increase daily in Turkey. Accordingly, a specific plan for geographical indications was required. The plan aims to raise awareness, develop legislation and practice, improve inter-enterprise coordination, as well as establish an effective control system and marketing strategies. Consideration of possible participation in the Lisbon Agreement is also noted. 

Detailed information of the three plans can be found at following links (only available in Turkish):

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