Industrial Designs Law in Trinidad and Tobago
Here’s an overview of Industrial Designs Law in Trinidad and Tobago:
Industrial Designs Law in Trinidad and Tobago
1. Legal Framework
Industrial designs in Trinidad and Tobago are governed by the Registered Designs Act, Chapter 82:80.
The Act provides the framework for registration, protection, and enforcement of industrial designs.
The Trinidad and Tobago Intellectual Property Office (TTIPO) is responsible for administration.
Trinidad and Tobago is a member of:
Paris Convention
TRIPS Agreement
WIPO
2. Definition and Protection
An industrial design is defined as the features of shape, configuration, pattern, or ornament applied to an article.
The design must be new and have an original character.
Protection covers the visual appearance of a product.
3. Registration Procedure
Applications are submitted to the TTIPO.
The application must include representations (drawings or photographs) of the design.
The office conducts a formal examination.
There is no substantive examination of novelty or originality.
Once registered, the design is published in the Industrial Designs Journal.
4. Term of Protection
Initial protection lasts for 5 years from the date of registration.
Protection can be renewed for two further consecutive terms of 5 years each, for a total maximum of 15 years.
5. Rights Conferred
The registered owner has exclusive rights to make, sell, or import articles bearing the design.
Third parties cannot use the design without authorization.
6. International Treaties
Trinidad and Tobago is a party to the Paris Convention and the TRIPS Agreement.
It is not a member of the Hague Agreement on industrial designs.
7. Enforcement
Infringement cases are dealt with in the national courts.
Remedies include injunctions, damages, and destruction of infringing articles.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Law | Registered Designs Act, Chapter 82:80 |
| Registration Authority | Trinidad and Tobago Intellectual Property Office (TTIPO) |
| Examination | Formal examination only |
| Protection Term | 15 years (5 years + 2 renewals of 5 years) |
| International Treaties | Paris Convention, TRIPS |
| Hague Agreement Member? | No |
| Enforcement | National courts; injunctions, damages, destruction |
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