WTCG presents copyright reform blueprint for creative industries

THE World Trade Center Georgetown (WTCG) delegation concluded its participation in the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Member Forum by presenting a study focused on enhancing copyright laws in Guyana, specifically tailored to boost the country’s creative industries. The study, commissioned earlier this year by WTCG, explores the current state of copyright legislation, its economic implications, and the importance of adapting legal frameworks to support the growing “orange” economy, which encompasses cultural and creative sectors.

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

Among its recommendations, the study calls for: A revamped Copyright Act tailored to modern needs; Formation of a Federation of Creative Industries of Guyana; Establishment of a national equivalent to the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) to support local creators; and initiatives to connect creative industries more deeply with tourism and the broader economy.

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

The study’s lead author, Neville Bissember, is a Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Guyana with a rich background in international relations, including roles with the Guyana Foreign Service, the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) Group in Brussels, and CARICOM. Bissember holds extensive legal credentials, including degrees from the University of the West Indies and the London School of Economics, alongside 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 CEO and WTCG Finance Director, Vasudeo Singh, to WTCA Chairman, John Drew. Representing WTCG at the forum were Singh, Kirton, and IT Specialist, Ryon Samaroo.

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

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