In an attempt to stamp out offshore internet gambling, the United States outlawed access to offshore internet gambling. Antigua, known for its beautiful Caribbean beaches, found the action had a negative impact
on its nascent online gambling industry and complained to the World Trade Organization (“WTO”) that the action violated free trade treaties. The WTO agreed with Antigua and told the United States to remedy the violation. Instead of complying, the United States opted to pass additional legislation – this time ordering United States banks and credit card companies to stop processing payments to online gambling businesses.
What’s All That Got to Do with the Price of Eggs?
What has online gambling and the Antigua/WTO situation have to do with intellectual property owners, you ask. I would say not much. However . . .