12 January 2012 marked the opening of the application period in which organisations can apply to create and operate new generic top level domain names. Most internet users will be familiar with gTLDs such as “.com”, however the new gTLD programme will likely see the number of gTLDs greatly expanded with brand owners taking the opportunity to create exclusive brand-orientated gTLDs.
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The Natural Health Products Bill went through its first reading on 15 September which proposes to set up a new regulatory system for low-risk natural health products in New Zealand. If the Bill is passed in its current form, it will place very stringent requirements on manufacturers, importers and distributors of natural health products.
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In an interesting decision earlier this month, the Assistant Commissioner of the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand rejected a trade mark application made by Central Emergency Communications Limited, Her Majesty the Queen in the right of New Zealand acting by and through the Commissioner of Police, NZ Fire Service Commission, St John Emergency Communications Limited and the National Rural Fire Authority (the “Applicants”) for the phone number “111”.
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The Trade Marks Amendment Act 2011 (the Amendment Act) came into force in New Zealand last month. The Amendment Act, previously known as the Trade Marks (International Treaties and Enforcement) Amendment Bill, has effected some important changes to the Trade Marks Act 2002 (the Act) which people should be aware of if they currently, or may in the future, own (or have any interest in) a trade mark.
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The Consumer Law Reform Bill is expected to be introduced to Parliament later this year which is likely to result in a number of key changes to existing consumer law, including those found in the Fair Trading Act 1986. In particular, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs proposes to introduce a new provision surrounding the substantiation of claims which will be of particular importance.
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