Local artistes and creators are set to benefit from stronger, longer-lasting protection for their work following the passage of the Copyright Amendment Bill in the Senate.
The Bill, which extends copyright, moral rights and neighbouring rights from 50 to 70 years, was unanimously approved on Tuesday, with all 30 senators voting in favour.
The changes are aimed at ensuring artistes, performers and producers can earn income from their creative output for longer periods, including into their later years.
Leading the debate, Minister of Land and Legal Affairs Saddam Hosein said the amendments cast a wider and longer protective shield over creative labour.
He explained that in cases of joint authorship, such as collaborations between lyricists and composers, protection would extend to 70 years after the death of the last surviving author.
Minister Hosein said the move brings Trinidad and Tobago in line with international standards, particularly in key markets such as the United States and Europe, while addressing the realities of a rapidly evolving, digital music industry driven by streaming platforms.
