Our experienced team is willing to protect your interest of business in this jurisdiction.
The Trademarks Act 2002 provides for local trademark applications with registration dating from receipt of application. The Registration of UK Trade Marks Act provides for applications to extend rights under a UK registration to Anguilla with effect from the date of registration in UK, but an action in Anguilla for infringement of a UK-based registration can only complain of infringement occurring after the date of registration in Anguilla.
Trade and service marks can be registered in Anguilla under the Nice Classification system. No prior use is necessary but non-use for five years following registration will subject the mark to an action for cancellation. International priority is available. The registration term on local registrations is 10 years and renewable for like periods; the term of trademarks registered as UK extensions is coterminous with the underlying UK registration.
Further information is available in an article published by this firm in the December 1, 2002 issue of the INTA Bulletin.
History: Originally called British Honduras and located on the northeast coast of central America, Belize was established by the British in 1973. Belize was first occupied by Mayan peoples but by the 16th and 17th centuries the Spanish had instituted their presence and held authority in the area. In the mid-17th century the British settled on the coast and overcame Spain’s fight to push them off the island. Although Belize suffered through many political crises, its independence was instituted on September 21, 1981. The official language of Belize is English, and its capital city is Belmopan.
Belize’s economic activity has been stimulated by tourism, but, along with merchandising, petroleum and agricultural exports have been the foundation for its economic output. The country has Export Processing Zones, or free trade zones, that encourage foreign trade and investment for the exemption of certain taxes and regulations. Every year Belize hosts the Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic, an amateur cycling race that spans 142 miles, drawing international attention in the world of sports. Ambergris Caye, Belize’s number one tourist and retirement destination, is comprised of miles of beaches and the second most substantial barrier reef in the world. Thousands of visitors are drawn to Belize each year for fly and deep-water fishing, as well as for thrilling diving spots.