OAPI – The Regional Conference on Intellectual Property
On 12 October 2021[1], the regional conference on intellectual property was opened in Libreville. The purpose of this conference is to discuss the challenges and unique perspectives relating to trade in Africa and in the African Continental Free Trade Area. During the 2-day conference, the potential of a free trade area, the importance of intellectual property in the development of economic activity and the regulatory and technological differences and challenges that may be faced were discussed. The intention is that, following these discussions, guiding principles will be developed that will assist in the creation of a free trade region.
Famous Faces, Hidden Risks: Using Celebrity Images on Merchandise in South Africa
A photograph of a famous athlete on a t-shirt. A tote bag featuring a well-known actor. A coffee mug bearing the likeness of a popular influencer. Celebrity-driven merchandise has become increasingly ...
October 21 2026
Is Your Trade Mark Portfolio Keeping Up With Your Business?
“We registered our trade mark years ago. We’re covered.” Are you? It’s a question every business owner should ask. Many businesses view trade mark registration as a once-off ex...
October 14 2026
Netflix and the Reach of Reputation: a Taiwan Trade Mark Decision and the South African Perspective
A recent decision of the Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (“TIPO”) illustrates how trade mark protection operates where competing marks consist essentially of stylised single letter devices, an...
October 14 2026