Antigua and Barbuda is seeking closer cooperation with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to strengthen intellectual property protection and raise public awareness of its importance.

Minister of State Michael Freeland and Registrar of the Antigua and Barbuda Intellectual Property and Commerce Office (ABIPCO), Ricki Camacho, met with WIPO officials to discuss joint initiatives aimed at promoting respect for intellectual property rights and expanding public education on the issue.

The talks also explored a potential copyright project centred on Japanese art and cultural heritage, highlighting opportunities for international collaboration in protecting creative works.

In a separate meeting, Freeland and Camacho discussed ways to secure greater international protection for the Antigua Black Pineapple through geographical indications (GIs), a system that recognises products whose qualities are linked to their place of origin.

Officials examined opportunities for technical assistance to help advance the pineapple’s GI status, which would protect its heritage while enhancing its international reputation and commercial value.

The discussions are part of Antigua and Barbuda’s wider efforts to strengthen its intellectual property framework and safeguard the country’s cultural and agricultural assets.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Antigua and Barbuda Seeks WIPO Support to Protect Culture and Black Pineapple.