Global trade is experiencing a major shift as governments, industries, and international organisations seek to replace centuries-old paper-based systems with seamless digital processes. According to the ICC Digital Standards Initiative’s July 2025 report, Digitalising Global Trade: A Roadmap to Interoperability…
The global trading system is weathering a turbulent 2025, with economic resilience tested by policy uncertainty, rising tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and the dominance of Big Tech in digital markets. The latest Global Trade Update (July 2025) by UNCTAD provides a…
Introduction A Sector with Promise Amidst Complexity The African textiles and apparel (T&A) sector has long been viewed as a potential driver of industrialisation, job creation, and regional economic transformation. Yet, despite this potential, Africa’s T&A industry remains underdeveloped and…
After multiple delays and decades of anticipation, the Bermudian government has confirmed that its long-awaited trademark reform will officially take effect on July 1, 2025. The new legislation, anchored in the Trademarks Act 2023, represents a sweeping modernisation of Bermuda’s…
In a groundbreaking legal move that could reshape the future of artificial intelligence and intellectual property law, entertainment giants Disney and NBCUniversal have filed a joint federal lawsuit against AI image generator Midjourney. The 110-page complaint, lodged in the U.S.…
The Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has issued a stern warning to Disc Jockeys (DJs) across the country, cautioning them against the unauthorised public performance of copyrighted music. In an advisory released on Wednesday in Abuja, the Commission emphasised that DJs…
Ethiopia has taken centre stage in the global intellectual property system by hosting the International Geographical Indications (GI) Conference in Addis Ababa from the 3 – 4, June, 2025. The event, organised by the Ethiopian Intellectual Property Authority (EIPA) in…
In a progressive move to strengthen science and innovation among youth, the Ugandan government has announced plans to integrate intellectual property (IP) education into the national school curriculum. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Education and Sports, reflects a…
Africa’s Cotton, Textile, and Apparel Industry: Market Strategies under AfCFTA Vol. 4, 2025 Despite holding over 20% of global cotton-growing land, Africa contributes less than 5% to global textile and apparel exports. The May 2025 policy brief by the Africa…
As part of the International Trade and Research Centre’s (ITRC) 2025 World Intellectual Property Day commemoration, this policy brief examines how Africa’s creative economy—particularly the music sector—can become a driver of intra-African trade through robust intellectual property (IP) systems and…