The government of Canada has passed a bill prohibiting “ambush marketing” of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Ambush marketing is when a company falsely suggests it is endorsed by the Games, and the infringement of Olympic and Paralympic words and symbols specific to the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games.
Under the new legislation it will be easier to obtain injunctions against these activities pending the outcome of a trial. The measures are time-limited and will expire after December 31, 2010. At the same time the Bill provides permanent protection for the best known international Olympic and Paralympic marks, such as the Rings and the Torch, most of which are already protected to some degree under the Trademarks Act.
