Anti-counterfeit bill to allow NZ to join global treaties

Customs Acting Manager Investigations, Dave Meredith shown last year with seized counterfeit 'Ab King Pro' machines. Photo / Dean Purcell

An anti-counterfeiting bill that was before Parliament last night will enable New Zealand to join three international trade mark treaties, Commerce Minister Simon Power says.

The Trade Marks (International Treaties and Enforcement) Amendment Bill yesterday passed its first reading on a unanimous vote and was referred to the foreign affairs, defence and trade select committee.

Power said the sale of counterfeit goods was a growing problem which hurt business productivity and financial viability and threatened New Zealanders health and safety.

The bill did not replace "strong, effective, civil action by the owners of trade marks and copyright".

"The responsibility for enforcing intellectual property rights still lies with them."

The bill would allow New Zealand to join the Singapore Treaty, the Nice Agreement and the Madrid Protocol, said Power.

Joining these treaties would reduce compliance costs, especially for firms looking to market their goods and services overseas.

Former Associate Commerce Minister Judith Tizard had previously said she would introduce the amendment.

- NZPA