South Africa Case Law

Basic Trade Mark S.A. v Karelia Tobacco Company Inc (39311/2014)

Basic Trade Mark S.A. v Karelia Tobacco Company Inc (39311/2014) [2015] ZAGPPHC 119 (17 February 2015)

Court

North Gauteng High Court, Pretoria

Case number

39311/2014

Judge

D S Fourie

The court dismissed an opposition to KAPPA’s registration in Class 34, finding no bad faith, no likelihood of confusion, and no proven tarnishment.

• Trade Mark Registration
• Bad Faith Application
• Likelihood Of Confusion
• Tarnishment
• Distinctive Character
• Unfair Advantage

Laugh It Off Promotions CC v South African Breweries International (Finance) BV t/a Sabmark International and Another

The respondent failed to prove a likelihood of substantial economic detriment to the repute of the CARLING BLACK LABEL marks, and section 34(1)(c) must be interpreted in a manner least restrictive of constitutional freedom of expression; accordingly the interdict could not stand.

Source excerpt

• Trade mark dilution
• Tarnishment
• Parody
• Fair use
• Anti-dilution protection
• Costs