close
close

WTCG presents copyright reform plan for creative industries

WTCG presents copyright reform plan for creative industries

The World Trade Center Georgetown (WTCG) delegation concluded its participation at the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Members’ Forum by presenting a study focused on improving copyright laws in Guyana, specifically designed to boost the country’s creative industries. The study, commissioned earlier this year by WTCG, explores the current state of copyright law, its economic implications and the importance of adapting legal frameworks to support the growing ‘orange’ economy, which includes the cultural and creative sectors.

Informed by consultations with local and international intellectual property stakeholders, as well as reviews of copyright laws in other common law countries, the study highlights the potential of a robust copyright framework to boost Guyana’s economy. It highlights how updated copyright laws could boost export growth, create stronger links between the creative industries and technology, and position Guyana’s creative sector for greater international trade opportunities.

Among its recommendations, the study calls for: A renewed copyright law adapted to modern needs; Formation of a Federation of Creative Industries of Guyana; Establishing a national equivalent of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) to support local creators; and initiatives to connect the creative industries more deeply with tourism and the wider economy.

WTCG Executive Director Wesley Kirton announced plans to share the study with the Guyanese government and host an international conference on the creative industries next year. This effort aims to stimulate dialogue and action on intellectual property reforms and further promote the integration of creative industries into economic planning.

The lead author of the study, Neville Bissember, is a Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Guyana with extensive experience in international relations, including positions with the Guyana Foreign Service, the African Caribbean and Pacific Group (ACP) in Brussels and CARICOM. Bissember holds extensive legal credentials, including degrees from the University of the West Indies and the London School of Economics, along with a fellowship at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy.

At the WTCA Forum, which covered global trade, human capacity building, AI and data management, the study was presented by DDL Deputy Managing Director and WTCG Chief Financial Officer Vasudeo Singh to WTCA President John Drew. Representing WTCG at the forum were Singh, Kirton and IT specialist Ryon Samaroo.

This initiative signifies WTCG’s commitment to empower Guyana’s creative economy and align national intellectual property laws to global standards, ultimately supporting the prosperity of Guyanese creators and businesses on the international stage.