Vices And Virtues: Beware The Differences Around The World

The Canadian Intellectual Property Office provides a helpful reminder on its website as follows: “Canada is the first G7 country to legalize recreational use of marijuana and businesses should be aware that other countries may not allow the same IP protections for the cannabis industry.” The red, bolded “Caution” sign will catch your attention, but this might also make you wonder: what about other goods and services? How might their varying legal statuses affect IP protection in different jurisdictions? Let's discuss this below.

Cannabis

In Canada, thanks to full legalization, businesses are free to apply to trademark goods and services related to cannabis use. After amendments to the Trademarks Act  came into force in June 2019, scents and tastes can now be trademarked as well.