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Technology rapidly transforms intellectual property (IP) by challenging traditional IP frameworks and simultaneously creating fresh opportunities for both the creative and business industries. In South Africa, and globally, the increasing reliance on technology for content creation and innovation...

In the world of social media influencers and content creators, a face can sometimes be more valuable than gold. Through strategic commercialisation, public figures now build empires based on their identity. This is possible because of one powerful tool – image rights. To understand image rights, ...

The acrylic claws are out again in the TAMMY TAYLOR trade mark ownership dispute in South Africa. This time it was the Pretoria High Court adding a fresh coat of polish to the matter in Lebohang Likotsi Hlathuka v Tammy Taylor Global Franchising (Pty) Ltd & Others. It handed down a gloss...

The long-awaited new South African Plant Breeders’ Rights Act No. 12 of 2018 (the New Act) came into operation as of 1 June 2025, and following the publication of Regulations to the new Act on 13 June 2025, the New Act is in force. The New Act repeals the Plant Breeders’ Right Act No. 15 of 1976 ...

The fashion industry often walks a tightrope with regards to IP: on one side lies the promise of global recognition for fashion-forward designs and on the other, the lurking threat of imitation. In fashion, originality is everything. But creativity without protection, is an open door to imitation...

In today’s high-tech economy, innovation is currency. For many companies, intellectual property (IP) is no longer merely a protective mechanism – it is a core business asset that can define market leadership. Unsurprisingly, IP has become a key driver in M&A activity. Acquirers are not only looki...

To mark World Anti-Counterfeiting Month, we’re proud to share our involvement in a bold anti-counterfeiting and sustainability initiative, that redefines how seized counterfeit goods are destroyed, turning a lia...

Despite legal prohibitions and the underlying unethical implications, the unauthorised reproduction and distribution of textbooks remains a widespread problem in South Africa. When students and educators participate in textbook piracy, they perpetuate a cycle that disrespects intellectual propert...

As a general rule, you need the permission of the owner of a copyrighted work to use that work. Relating this rule to music, use would include, for example, playing songs in public through a public address system or on the radio, performing them to an audience and using them in advertisements or ...

Despite various laws governing design registrations across different countries, one common requirement is novelty. A design has to be new to meet the novelty requirement, meaning it must not have been disclosed t...