View all newsletters
Receive our newsletter - data, insights and analysis delivered to you
  1. Technology
January 30, 2013

US warns Antigua over legal piracy site despite WTO’s approval

Antigua's government is planning to sell movies, music and software with the help of a new site.

By CBR Staff Writer

The US has warned Antigua and Barbuda not to go ahead with a plan to operate a legal piracy site, approval from the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The move from Antigua to operate the site follows a US refusal to lift a trade blockade which prevented the country from providing internet gambling services.

Antigua’s government is planning to sell movies, music and software with the help of new site without paying fees to US copyright holders.

A spokeswoman for the US Trade Representative’s office told the BBC "Government-authorised piracy would undermine chances for a settlement."

"It would also serve as a major impediment to foreign investment in the Antiguan economy, particularly in hi-tech industries."

"The United States has urged Antigua to consider solutions that would benefit its broader economy. However, Antigua has repeatedly stymied these negotiations with certain unrealistic demands."

In February 2006, the US ban on overseas gambling web sites was attacked by Antigua and Barbuda, who accused the US of failing to comply with current WTO rulings.

Content from our partners
Unlocking growth through hybrid cloud: 5 key takeaways
How businesses can safeguard themselves on the cyber frontline
How hackers’ tactics are evolving in an increasingly complex landscape

In 2007, WTO granted Antigua the right to suspend US copyrights of around $21m per year.

Websites in our network
Select and enter your corporate email address Tech Monitor's research, insight and analysis examines the frontiers of digital transformation to help tech leaders navigate the future. Our Changelog newsletter delivers our best work to your inbox every week.
  • CIO
  • CTO
  • CISO
  • CSO
  • CFO
  • CDO
  • CEO
  • Architect Founder
  • MD
  • Director
  • Manager
  • Other
Visit our privacy policy for more information about our services, how New Statesman Media Group may use, process and share your personal data, including information on your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.
THANK YOU