Customs enforcement
Under the Law on Customs Measures for the Protection of IP Rights, the rights-holder may apply to the Customs Administration to monitor and detain suspected infringing goods. The holder must prove ownership and provide identification details.
Administrative enforcement
The State Market Inspectorate carries out inspections; it may impose administrative penalties (fines) and seize suspect consignments.
Criminal enforcement
The Ministry of Interior brings criminal proceedings in more serious cases (organized infringement, counterfeiting).
Civil court action
The rights-holder may file suit before the competent court — the Administrative Court for IPPO decisions, and the Basic Civil Court of Skopje for infringement claims. Possible remedies: cessation of infringement, withdrawal of goods, damages, written apology, publication of the judgment.
Interim measures
The court may grant interim measures (seizure, trade ban) before the procedure concludes, if there is risk of irreparable harm.
When to contact a professional
- You have an infringement — always. The choice of route (customs, administrative, civil) depends on the case.
Other areas
Trademark
Protect your brand name, logo, and signs.
Patent
Protect a technical invention.
Industrial design
Protect a product's external appearance.
Copyright
Automatic protection — no registration.
Geographical indications
Protect a name linked to an area.
Enforcement & customs
What to do when your rights are infringed.
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Short expert answers on intellectual property, written by professionals in the Nexa network.
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