Gallo Africa Ltd v Sting Music (Pty) Ltd 2010 (6) SA 329 (SCA) — Revisiting the justiciability of cross-border copyright infringement in South African courts

Gallo Africa Ltd v Sting Music (Pty) Ltd 2010 (6) SA 329 (SCA) — Revisiting the justiciability of cross-border copyright infringement in South African courts

Author Thato M Moloto

ISSN: 2521-2591
Affiliations: Consultant, World Intellectual Property Organization (Copyright Management Division), Geneva
Source: South African Intellectual Property Law Journal, 2021, p. 67 – 86
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAIPL/v9/a4

Abstract

This contribution examines the basis for and implications of the strictly territorial approach of South African courts in cross-border copyright infringement cases, requiring litigants to bring separate infringement suits in every country where infringement is alleged. This position by the courts loosely hinges on principles of effectiveness, locality and comity, as well as the classification of all intellectual property — copyright in this case — as immovable incorporeal property. In this belated case note, the Roman-Dutch law origins from which this classification is inferred to be derived from the English common law precedent with which it is paralleled and private international law principles applicable are briefly interrogated in light of prevailing constitutional prescripts. This complete bar on the authority of local courts on what is a ubiquitous concern for rights holders is a matter with far-reaching consequences.

DABUS gains territory in South Africa and Australia: Revisiting the AI-inventorship question

DABUS gains territory in South Africa and Australia: Revisiting the AI-inventorship question

Author: Desmond Osaretin Oriakhogba

ISSN: 2521-2591
Affiliations: Senior Lecturer, Department of Mercantile and Private Law, University of Venda
Source: South African Intellectual Property Law Journal, 2021, p. 87 – 108
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAIPL/v9/a5

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Oriakhogba, DO
DABUS gains territory in South Africa and Australia: Revisiting the AI-inventorship question
Senior Lecturer, Department of Mercantile and Private Law, University of Venda
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAIPL/v9/a5

Abstract

This paper draws from and builds upon DO Oriakhogba ‘What If DABUS Came to Africa? Visiting AI Inventorship and Ownership of Patent from the Nigerian Perspective’ (2021) 42(2) Business Law Review 89. It reviews the recent granting of a patent by the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) to Dr Stephen Thaler in respect of the DABUS-generated invention in South Africa and the judgment of the Australian Federal Court (FCA) upholding AI-inventorship. The review, which is based on desk research, is conducted against a backdrop of statutory provisions and case law from both countries, the provisions of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and relevant literature dealing with the inventorship question. The paper determines whether, without reform of the extant patent law and policy, recognition of artificial intelligence (AI) as an inventor does not undermine the foundational concept of human inventorship, and the central focus on human creation and agency for intellectual property protection in South Africa and Australia. In connection with this, the paper asks and examines the question of whether the CIPC patent grant and the FCA judgment can stand judicial scrutiny under the extant patent regimes in South Africa and Australia.

A Critical Analysis of the Amendments Proposed to the Social and Ethics Committee by the Companies Amendment Bill, 2018

A Critical Analysis of the Amendments Proposed to the Social and Ethics Committee by the Companies Amendment Bill, 2018

Authors: Delani Milton Mahhumane and Rehana Cassim

ISSN: 1996-2185
Affiliations: Former Postgraduate Assistant, Department of Mercantile Law, University of South Africa; Associate Professor, Department of Mercantile Law, University of South Africa
Source: South African Mercantile Law Journal, Volume 33 Issue 2, 2021, p. 153 – 175
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAMLJ/v33/i2a1

Abstract

The Companies Amendment Bill, 2018 proposes certain changes to the social and ethics committee established in terms of s 72(4) of the Companies Act 71 of 2008 and reg 43 of the Companies Regulations, 2011. These new provisions are critically discussed in this article. Although some of these provisions are commendable, others give rise to certain concerns examined here: the lack of clarity in the functions of the social and ethics committee, the proposed amendments regarding its appointment and composition, and the ambiguity in the exemptions from the requirement to appoint this committee. This article also suggests further amendments to the current legislative provisions regarding this committee.

Investigating the Need to Introduce Compulsory Interest Arbitration as a Method to Prevent Lengthy Strikes in South Africa

Investigating the Need to Introduce Compulsory Interest Arbitration as a Method to Prevent Lengthy Strikes in South Africa

Author: Mlungisi Tenza

ISSN: 1996-2185
Affiliations: Senior Lecturer, School of Law, University of KwaZulu-Natal
Source: South African Mercantile Law Journal, Volume 33 Issue 2, 2021, p. 176 – 199
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAMLJ/v33/i2a2

Abstract

The issue of lengthy strikes in South Africa has been a cause for concern since it destabilises the economy and can result in a loss of employment if it is not managed properly. A strike that takes too long to be resolved causes anger towards strikers, so creating a fertile environment for the eruption of violence between striking and non-striking workers. Damage to property and harm to civilians has been reported where striking workers have become violent during a strike. It appears that the existing remedies fail to curb long strikes and resultant violence, as unions and members continue with their action despite the granting of an order of interdict to stop the conduct. To solve the problem of long and consequently violent strikes, the article advocates the introduction of a compulsory interest arbitration in the labour relations law of South Africa. A compulsory interest arbitration will force the parties into arbitration once it is established that the strike has continued for an unreasonably long period without a solution. The use of compulsory interest arbitration will not be unique to South Africa, as other countries such as Canada and Australia use it in their labour relations systems – which helps them deal with long and possibly harmful or violent strikes. The article argues that lessons can be learned from these countries on how South Africa can deal with its own protracted strikes. The article further proposes that the LRA be amended to include a provision that will enable the Minister to intervene where the parties fail to reach agreement on disputed issues, and where it is in the public interest to do so. Introducing a compulsory interest arbitration in the labour relations system could limit the right to strike. However, the article argues that such a limitation may be justified in terms of s 36 of the Constitution.

The Job Security of Employees of Financially Distressed Companies

The Job Security of Employees of Financially Distressed Companies

Authors: Mieka E. Loubser and Christoph Garbers

ISSN: 1996-2185
Affiliations: BAccLLB candidate, Faculty of Law, Stellenbosch University; Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, Stellenbosch University
Source: South African Mercantile Law Journal, Volume 33 Issue 2, 2021, p. 200 – 237
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAMLJ/v33/i2a3

Abstract

This contribution considers the legislative regulation of the job security (which boils down to preservation of employment) of employees in case of financial distress of a company. It juxtaposes the legislative regulation of four interrelated processes a company may engage in where it finds itself in financial distress, namely a voluntary internal restructuring (especially retrenchment), the transfer of the business or part of the business, business rescue and winding up. The legislative endeavour to preserve the job security of employees in all these processes is described and analysed. The discussion shows that room exists for companies to circumvent this protection and, to the extent that the protection does apply, that it remains difficult for employees to ultimately challenge the substance of decisions negatively affecting their job security. The main protection for employees in all these processes is procedural in nature and to be found in their rights to be informed of and consulted prior to decisions negatively affecting them. In this regard, business rescue is the most employee-friendly process. Participation in this process by employees, however, requires a fine balance as it may be self-defeating and lead to winding up and the permanent loss of jobs.

Incompatibility as a Ground for Dismissal in Contemporary South African Law of Unfair Dismissal: A Review of Zeda Car Leasing and Other Recent Cases

Incompatibility as a Ground for Dismissal in Contemporary South African Law of Unfair Dismissal: A Review of Zeda Car Leasing and Other Recent Cases

Authors: Chuks Okpaluba and Tumo Charles Maloka

ISSN: 1996-2185
Affiliations: Research Fellow, Centre for Human Rights, University of the Free State; Associate Professor, Department of Mercantile and Labour Law, University of Limpopo
Source: South African Mercantile Law Journal, Volume 33 Issue 2, 2021, p. 238 – 259
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAMLJ/v33/i2a4

Abstract

Although incompatibility is not listed along with incapacity, misconduct, or operational requirements in s 188(1)(a) of the Labour Relations Act 66 of 1995 as a ground for dismissal, in practice, it has been likened to all these statutorily laid down grounds to justify dismissal and abundant case law abound to bear witness to this assertion. A cursory reading of the cases of Zeda Car Leasing (Pty) Ltd t/a Avis Fleet v Van Dyk [2020] ZALAC 4; Mgijima v MEC, Department of Education, Gauteng [2014] ZALCJHB 414; Edcon Ltd v Padayachee [2018] ZALCJHB 307 and Watson v South African Rugby Union (SARU) [2017] ZALCJHB 264 where incompatibility was approached respectively, from the prism of operational requirements; incapacity and misconduct; coupled with some recent cases discussed herein, clearly indicate that incompatibility has not only covered the field, it has also acquired a pride of place in contemporary South African law of unfair dismissal. Given these circumstances, the authors recommend the insertion into s 188(1)(a)(i) by way of an amendment such that the subsection will include a fair reason ‘related to the employee’s conduct, incapacity or ‘‘incompatibility’’ ’. This will definitely clear any lingering doubts surrounding the role of incompatibility and empower the arbitrator and the Labour Court to adjudicate with a level of clarity in the law of unfair dismissal.

The Regulation of False Advertising in South Africa: An Analysis of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 and Self-Regulation

The Regulation of False Advertising in South Africa: An Analysis of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 and Self-Regulation

Authors: Yeukai Mupangavanhu and Dominique Kerchhoff

ISSN: 1996-2185
Affiliations: Associate Professor, University of Western Cape; Former student, University of the Western Cape
Source: South African Mercantile Law Journal, Volume 33 Issue 2, 2021, p. 260 – 288
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAMLJ/v33/i2a5

Abstract

The Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (CPA) regulates the provision of goods and services, the conclusion of consumer contracts as well as the promotion and marketing of goods and services. It also protects consumers from unscrupulous advertisers who use false and misleading advertisements to induce consumers to enter into contracts which they would otherwise not have concluded. This article seeks to critically analyse the legislative provisions relating to false, misleading, and deceptive advertising, and the seemingly accessible and efficient legal redress mechanism created under the CPA. Self-regulation by bodies such as the Advertising Regulatory Board, which is responsible for the regulation of the advertising industry in South Africa, is also discussed in detail. The article concludes that the co-existence of the CPA and self-regulation is pertinent to ensure that consumers are adequately protected from unscrupulous advertisements. This is because self-regulation provides an additional layer of protection to consumers. It is also argued that the forums created under the CPA should be given powers to declare certain promotional activities and advertisements unfair, unjust or unreasonable.

The Impact of Cryptocurrencies on the General Powers and Duties of South African Insolvency Practitioners

The Impact of Cryptocurrencies on the General Powers and Duties of South African Insolvency Practitioners

Authors: Sidasha Singh and Juanitta Calitz

ISSN: 1996-2185
Affiliations: Senior Associate, Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr; Associate Professor, Department of Mercantile Law, University of Johannesburg
Source: South African Mercantile Law Journal, Volume 33 Issue 2, 2021, p. 289 – 318
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAMLJ/v33/i2a6

Abstract

Within the context of the fourth industrial revolution, cryptocurrencies pose several challenges in the framework of corporate insolvency law. In South African law, no statutory framework vis-à-vis cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, currently exists. This has however not prevented entities from engaging in the cryptocurrency market. The specific dilemma is that insolvency practitioners do not have legislative guidelines to assist them in dealing with the subject of cryptocurrencies. Consequently, international judicial developments must be consulted and analysed with the aim to close the gap between the legislature and Industry 4.0. This article unpacks the South African legal position on cryptocurrencies within the context of the statutory powers and duties of insolvency practitioners. It engages in an analysis of selected international courts cases that have dealt with the concept of cryptocurrencies within the context of insolvent estates and continues to make recommendations for the development of an efficient and effective regulatory model.

South Africa’s latest medically assisted reproduction draft regulations: close, but no cigar

South Africa’s latest medically assisted reproduction draft regulations: close, but no cigar

South Africa’s latest medically assisted reproduction draft regulations: close, but no cigar

Authors: Donrich Thaldar and Bonginkosi Shozi

ISSN: 1996-2207
Affiliations: Associate Professor, School of Law, University of KwaZulu-Natal; Postdoctoral Research Scholar, Institute for Practical Ethics, UC San Diego
Source: Tydskrif vir die Suid-Afrikaanse Reg, Issue 1, 2022, p. 1-24
https://doi.org/10.47348/TSAR/2022/i1a1

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Thaldar, D and Shozi, B
South Africa’s latest medically assisted reproduction draft regulations: close, but no cigar
Tydskrif vir die Suid-Afrikaanse Reg, Issue 1, 2022, p. 1-24
https://doi.org/10.47348/TSAR/2022/i1a1

Abstract

Medies-geassisteerde voortplanting in Suid-Afrika word tans gereguleer deur regulasies wat in 2012 gepromulgeer is ingevolge die Nasionale Gesondheidswet 61 van 2003. In Maart 2021 het die minister van Gesondheid nuwe konsepregulasies gepubliseer vir kommentaar. Hierdie artikel ontleed die nuwe konsepregulasies teen die agtergrond van groeiende regspraak in die gebied van medies-geassisteerde voortplanting, asook teen die agtergrond van nuwe tegnologiese ontwikkeling in hierdie gebied oor die afgelope dekade. In die eerste deel van die artikel word aspekte waarin die konsepregulasies verbeter het op die huidige regulasies uitgewys en ontleed, te wete (i) die nuwe, meer akkurate definisie van gameetskenker; (ii) die verhoogde perk op die hoeveelheid kinders wat verwek mag word met die gamete van n enkele skenker; (iii) die betrokkenheid van die direkteur-generaal in die vasstelling van vergoeding vir verskaffing van gamete; en (iv) die terugkeer na gemeenregtelike regulering van eienaarskap van gamete en in vitro embrios. Die tweede deel van die artikel word toegespits op aspekte waarin die konsepregulasies verbeter behoort te word, naamlik (i) inkonsekwentheid en onsamehangendheid van verskeie definisies; (ii) die beperking dat spermselle slegs deur self-stimulasie bekom mag word vir medies-geassisteerde voortplanting; en (iii) die gebrek aan regulering van menslike oorerflike genoom-redigering. Die derde deel van die artikel verskaf n oorsig van die drie bepalings van die 2012 regulasies wat tans die onderwerp is van n grondwetlike hofsaak en wys hoe die 2021 konsepregulasies poog om die knelpunte in die hofsaak aan te spreek. Hierdie drie bepalings is (i) die vereiste dat n paartjie (hetsy getroud of in n permanente verhouding) hulself moet onderwerp aan sielkundige evaluasie indien hulle mekaar se gamete wil gebruik vir medies-geassisteerde voortplanting; (ii) die verbod op voor-inplantingstoetsing van in vitro embrios vir nie-terapeutiese geslagseleksie; en (iii) die verbod op bekendmaking deur énigiemand van inligting oor mense wat gebruik gemaak het van medies-geassisteerde voortplanting, óf wat verwek is deur medies-geassisteerde voortplanting, óf wat gamete geskenk het vir medies-geassisteerde voortplanting. Die gevolgtrekking word gemaak dat die konsepregulasies n prysenswaardige poging is om op die bestaande regulasies te verbeter, maar dat dit nog in talle opsigte wesenlik tekort skiet. Ten einde hierdie tekortkominge aan te spreek, word omvattende aanbevelings gemaak oor hoe om die konsepregulasies aan te pas.

 

Considerations that inform the view of whether there is a reasonable prospect of rescuing a company: a decade of legal precedent

Considerations that inform the view of whether there is a reasonable prospect of rescuing a company: a decade of legal precedent

Authors: Patrick O’brien and Juanitta Calitz

ISSN: 1996-2207
Affiliations: Professor of Mercantile Law, University of Johannesburg; Associate Professor of Mercantile Law, University of Johannesburg
Source: Tydskrif vir die Suid-Afrikaanse Reg, Issue 1, 2022, p. 25-49
https://doi.org/10.47348/TSAR/2022/i1a2

Abstract

Suid-Afrikaanse howe het oor die afgelope dekade rigting gegee oor die algemene beginsels wat ter sprake kom wanneer die deurlopende vereiste van n redelike vooruitsig vir sakeredding van n maatskappy oorweeg word. Volgens die hoogste hof van appèl is daar geen algemene minimum voorskrifte om te bepaal of daar n redelike vooruitsig vir sakeredding is nie. Dit is dus nie moontlik om n afmerklys of templaat te ontwerp van oorwegings wat in hierdie opsig ter sprake kom nie. Daar moet van geval tot geval bepaal word watter oorwegings relevant is om te bepaal of daar n redelike vooruitsig vir sakeredding is. Daar moet bepaal word watter gewig aan elke oorweging gegee moet word. Die oorwegings (wat uiteenlopend en selfs teenstrydig mag wees), moet teen mekaar opgeweeg word. Volgens die hoogste hof van appèl is daar twee selfstandige oogmerke vir sakeredding: sakeredding en sakemoord (laasgenoemde wanneer sakeredding wat uitloop op sakemoord, n beter opbrengs kan bewerkstellig as onmiddellike likwidasie). In hierdie bydrae word aandag geskenk aan die oorwegings wat in die regspraak oor die afgelope jare ter sprake gekom het om te bepaal of daar n redelike vooruitsig vir sakeredding is. Eerstens word die oorwegings bespreek wat by albei oogmerke vir sakeredding ter sprake mag kom, maar moontlik meer relevant is wanneer die oogmerk inderdaad sakeredding is. Daarna word die oorwegings bespreek wat veral ter sprake kom wanneer die oogmerk is dat n beter opbrengs bewerkstellig word deur sakeredding as by wyse van likwidasie. Alhoewel hierdie oorwegings geen afmerklys of templaat verteenwoordig nie, word vertrou dat hierdie ontleding van die regspraak, tesame met die algemene beginsels wat volgens die regspraak by die vereiste van n redelike vooruitsig vir sakeredding ter sprake kom, van hulp kan wees vir diegene wat met die beantwoording van vrae in verband met hierdie vereiste gekonfronteer word.