Geographical Indications Law in Bermuda (BOT)
Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory, does not currently have specific legislation dedicated to the protection of Geographical Indications (GIs). While Bermuda's intellectual property laws are largely based on UK equivalents, they primarily address trademarks, patents, copyrights, and designs. The Trade Marks Act 1974, for instance, allows for the registration of trademarks but does not explicitly cover GIs
However, Bermuda is in the process of modernizing its intellectual property framework. In December 2022, the Minister for Tourism and the Cabinet Office announced plans to revamp outdated IP legislation, including trademarks, copyright, patents, and designs. The new legislation aims to reflect modern processes and industry best practices, potentially extending protection to certification, collective, and nontraditional marks .
While the draft legislation is out for industry consultation, it is not yet clear whether it will include provisions for the registration and protection of GIs. As of now, businesses in Bermuda seeking to protect GIs may need to rely on broader trademark protections or consider international avenues for GI registration.
For the most current information, stakeholders are encouraged to monitor updates from Bermuda's Intellectual Property Office and participate in the ongoing consultation process.
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