Members of the public who use the Pacific Games logo without approval will be dealt with accordingly. 

This was the response from the Pacific Games (P.G.) Office to questions sent by Samoa Observer. 

The Samoa 2019 XVI Pacific Games logo and insignia were registered as Intellectual Property and Trademark with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour soon after the release of the logo in June 2018 said the Office of the Pacific Games. 

When asked about the penalty for unauthorised use of the logo, the Office said it will depend on the level of infringement which will be guided by the Office of the Attorney General.

They said a public notice published in the Sunday Observer on June 9, 2019 advised the public on how to attain authorised use of the logo. 

The Government of Samoa, through the P.G. Office, has sponsorship agreements with a number of businesses, who have the exclusive rights to use the logo, some of which are for retailing purposes.

“This week other retailers will have the opportunity to apply for merchandise licenses to produce souvenir merchandise in time for the Games.

“It is important that members of the public are aware that authorization to use the logo for commercial purposes is attained, prior to production.”

Applications for interested parties who wish to purchase a license to use the logo to produce souvenir merchandise memorabilia is available and will close on June 30, 2019.

According to the application form for the Merchandise License, prices are as follows for various categories: apparel which include: jackets, hoodies, t-shirts, sweat shirts, pants, shorts, rain wear, head-wear bearing the logo is equivalent to $1,000.

“The price for the category of a lavalava or sarong is $300 whereas accessories like bags, water bottles, cell phone holders, and umbrellas bearing the logo are $300.

“Pins, badges and ties bearing the logo is $300 while novelty (pens, pencils, key rings, fans, spoons, stationery items, bottle openers, bottle coolers, wristbands, USB sticks, mugs with the logo is $300 and lastly embroidery is $500.

“Any other product bearing the logo like flags, Shopping bags is $300.”