Copyrights Law in Fiji
Here’s an overview of copyright law in Fiji as of 2025:
Copyright Law in Fiji
1. Legal Framework
Copyright in Fiji is governed by the Copyright Act 1999 (Cap. 117).
The Act complies with international treaties, as Fiji is a member of:
Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Copyright Treaty
TRIPS Agreement under the WTO
2. Protected Works
The Copyright Act protects:
Literary works (books, articles, computer programs)
Artistic works (paintings, drawings, sculptures)
Musical works and compositions
Cinematographic films and audiovisual works
Sound recordings
Broadcasts and performances
3. Rights Conferred
Economic rights include exclusive rights to reproduce, publish, perform, communicate, and distribute works.
Moral rights include the right to be identified as the author and the right to object to derogatory treatment of the work.
Rights arise automatically upon creation of the work; no formal registration is required.
4. Duration of Protection
For most works, copyright lasts for the life of the author plus 50 years after their death.
For cinematographic films, sound recordings, broadcasts, and performances, the duration is 50 years from the date of publication or communication to the public.
5. Limitations and Exceptions
The Act provides exceptions for:
Fair dealing for criticism, review, or news reporting
Use for educational and research purposes
Private copying for personal use
Libraries and archives under certain conditions
6. Enforcement
Copyright infringement is enforced through the courts.
Remedies include injunctions, damages, and penalties.
Criminal sanctions apply to willful infringement.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Law | Copyright Act 1999 (Cap. 117) |
| Protection | Automatic, no registration required |
| Protected Works | Literary, artistic, musical, audiovisual, sound recordings, broadcasts |
| Duration | Life of author + 50 years (general) |
| Exceptions | Fair dealing, education, private use |
| Enforcement | Civil and criminal remedies |
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