Antigua and Barbuda is exploring new partnerships to promote intellectual property awareness and strengthen protection for local cultural and agricultural assets following discussions with officials from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Minister of State, the Honourable Michael Freeland, and Registrar of the Antigua and Barbuda Intellectual Property and Commerce Office (ABIPCO), Ms. Ricki Camacho, met with WIPO representatives to discuss potential areas of collaboration, including initiatives aimed at improving public understanding and respect for intellectual property rights.

The meeting brought together Mr. Kinihiko Fushimi, Director of the International Classifications and Standards Division and Platforms Sector; Mr. Takanori Kusaki, Associate Officer in the Division for Asia and the Pacific, Office of the Department for Development Cooperation; as well as Ms. Lorena Bolaños de Pacheco and Mr. Javier Spencer of WIPO.

Discussions centred on the possible development of a collaborative project focused on copyright protection, with particular attention to initiatives that showcase Japanese art and cultural heritage.

Freeland says the meeting highlighted the importance of international cooperation in advancing intellectual property education and creating greater awareness of how intellectual property rights can support creativity, innovation, and cultural preservation.

The talks with WIPO followed another meeting involving Minister Freeland and Registrar Camacho, where attention was placed on protecting one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most recognised agricultural products, the Antigua Black Pineapple.

The discussions with Mr. Marcus Höpperger and Ms. Jiasmine Honculada focused on the potential use of geographical indications (GIs) to formally recognise the unique qualities and origin of the Antigua Black Pineapple.

A geographical indication designation would help distinguish the product internationally by linking its reputation and characteristics to its specific place of production, while providing a framework for protecting its heritage and economic value.

The officials also explored opportunities for technical cooperation and support to help advance the pineapple’s protection under the geographical indications system.

The meetings form part of broader efforts to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s intellectual property framework while ensuring that the country’s cultural expressions and locally produced goods receive greater recognition and protection on the international stage.