IFPI applauds coming into force of WIPO Treaties

Most significant update of international copyright laws in over 30 years

IFPI applauds the work undertaken to complete the most significant update of international copyright laws protecting intellectual property in over 30 years. The two WIPO treaties, the Copyright treaty and the Performances and Phonograms Treaty (WPPT), were each signed by over 30 countries and came into force on March 6 and May 20 respectively. Online distribution is expected to become a major segment of the music business over the next decade. The entry into force of the WIPO Treaties boosts the two-pronged strategy of the recording industry to develop new subscription-based and alternative services, while at the same time taking steps to prevent the proliferation of pirate and infringing music on the internet.

Jay Berman, Chairman and CEO of IFPI said: "The WPPT Treaty represents the first global copyright framework for record labels and performers in the digital era and provides essential tools for the industry to do business in the online world. It strengthens our industry's protection from piracy on the internet, and it provides the foundation needed for the music industry in every country to introduce new online delivery services. These treaties benefit all record companies globally - independent and major record labels, in developing and developed countries."