The new Russian language law hasn’t yet come into force, but it has already triggered a wave of concern among businesses with foreign-language names. To avoid the upcoming restrictions in 2026, companies are rapidly filing trademark applications. And this is not an overreaction – it’s a strategic move to preserve their brand names, identity and recognition.
Starting March 1, 2026, the new language requirements for public information will take effect. According to the new law, all consumer information, including signs and informational panels, must be written in Russian. The law also covers descriptions of services, goods, sellers, and terms of special offers.
Text in the languages of Russia’s ethnic groups or in foreign languages is permitted only if the following conditions are met:
For instance, the word “Sale” must be translated as “Распродажа” and formatted in the exact same style.
The law will also impact the construction industry. Specifically, the names of residential complexes and capital construction projects used in advertising must be written in Cyrillic. Foreign-language names will only be allowed for projects commissioned before the law takes effect.
However, there is an important exception: the new rules do not extend to trademarks and trade names.
This means that:
Rebranding can be avoided. If a company name or signage includes foreign-language elements, it’s advisable to consider trademark registration in advance.
This approach allows companies to:
TKM International Consulting is already witnessing a notable surge in trademark registration requests. Companies are taking proactive steps to protect their brands before the new language law comes into effect, aiming to avoid rebranding costs and preserve recognition.
TKM is already processing dozens of trademark applications from companies looking to safeguard their names, identities and reputations. Many of them use foreign-language brand names and want to take early action to minimize risks, preserve brand recognition, and remain compliant with the upcoming regulation.
Our services include:
Contact us regarding brand protection in any category of goods online and offline:
client-service@tkm-ic.com
+7 (495) 540 44 57
Source: http://duma.gov.ru/news/61635/
Starting March 1, 2026, the new language requirements for public information will take effect. According to the new law, all consumer information, including signs and informational panels, must be written in Russian. The law also covers descriptions of services, goods, sellers, and terms of special offers.
Text in the languages of Russia’s ethnic groups or in foreign languages is permitted only if the following conditions are met:
- The Russian text must be primary;
- The translation must convey the same meaning;
- The formatting must be identical in terms of font, color, size, and layout.
For instance, the word “Sale” must be translated as “Распродажа” and formatted in the exact same style.
The law will also impact the construction industry. Specifically, the names of residential complexes and capital construction projects used in advertising must be written in Cyrillic. Foreign-language names will only be allowed for projects commissioned before the law takes effect.
However, there is an important exception: the new rules do not extend to trademarks and trade names.
This means that:
- The use of foreign-language names can be retained if a valid registered trademark exists;
- Brand names, logos and other elements of corporate identity that are part of protected marks do not require adaptation.
Rebranding can be avoided. If a company name or signage includes foreign-language elements, it’s advisable to consider trademark registration in advance.
This approach allows companies to:
- Retain familiar branding and design;
- Avoid the cost of replacing signage;
- Comply with the law without changing names;
- Protect the brand from being copied.
TKM International Consulting is already witnessing a notable surge in trademark registration requests. Companies are taking proactive steps to protect their brands before the new language law comes into effect, aiming to avoid rebranding costs and preserve recognition.
TKM is already processing dozens of trademark applications from companies looking to safeguard their names, identities and reputations. Many of them use foreign-language brand names and want to take early action to minimize risks, preserve brand recognition, and remain compliant with the upcoming regulation.
Our services include:
- Conducting a uniqueness search of your proposed name;
- Preparing and filing the trademark application;
- Providing full legal support throughout the registration process.
Contact us regarding brand protection in any category of goods online and offline:
client-service@tkm-ic.com
+7 (495) 540 44 57
Source: http://duma.gov.ru/news/61635/