3 weeks ago
8
Rum makers will return to court next February to battle over the definition of Jamaican rum, following a Supreme Court ruling that gives National Rums of Jamaica Limited, NRJ, temporary relief.
On September 19, the court paused enforcement of new rules that would prohibit ageing overseas while still labelling the product as Jamaica rum. The decision came after NRJ challenged last October’s change to the geographical indication, or GI, for Jamaica Rum.
Represented by Patrick Foster KC, National Rums of Jamaica argued that the rule would disrupt long-standing practices and hurt exports. The court agreed to suspend the change while the full case is heard in February.
The ruling means NRJ can continue operating as usual for now.
“This is about people, [and] communities,” said National Rums CEO Martha Miller. “Jamaica rum is more than a label. It’s a promise of quality ... and national pride.”
She added that the ruling protects jobs and the future of the industry.
“Without this ruling, NRJ and others would have faced sudden changes that could damage Jamaica’s reputation in global markets. This is a positive step”, which “gives the industry and the communities that depend on it some breathing room,” said Miller.
“For now, the ruling restores stability and clarity. It allows us to continue our operations with confidence,” she said.
The Spirits Pool Association, which represents the interests of many distilleries across the island, will not challenge the current ruling, which effectively allows National Rums of Jamaica to continue ageing rums outside of Jamaica.
“We accept the ruling from the learned judge and will not appeal this decision,” said Christopher Gentles, general manager of the Spirits Pool Association.
Instead, the Spirits Pool says it will maintain focus on preparations for the continuing court fight in February.
The pool comprised of rum producers views local ageing as critical to maintaining Jamaica’s premium reputation in global spirits markets.
“Our members are collectively committed to safeguarding and protecting the Jamaican rum geographical indication,” the association stated.
“Robust and effective GI protections serve an important role in ensuring that the unique heritage and quality of Jamaican rum is properly recognised globally.”
While the matter is before the courts, the Spirits Pool says it remains open to dialogue.
“We believe that collaborative engagement will help ensure outcomes that enhance the reputation of Jamaica rum,” it said.
NRJ is jointly owned by the Government of Jamaica, Demerara Distillers of Guyana, and West Indies Rum Distillery of Barbados – which itself is owned by Maison Ferrand of France. Ferrand produces Planteray Rum – formerly Plantation Rum – and ages its rums in France, United States and Jamaica.
Rum exports generated US$57 million in 2024, down 10 per cent from the previous year, according to the Planning Institute of Jamaica and United Nations Trademap data. With wholesale and retail markups, the industry’s total output more than doubles that figure.
English (US) ·