Turustusõigus

Turustusõigus, also known as distribution rights, is a legal concept in intellectual property law that grants a licensee the authority to sell, distribute, or otherwise commercially exploit a protected work or product on behalf of the rights holder. This right is often associated with copyright, patent, or trademark law and is used to regulate the distribution and dissemination of works or goods.

In the context of copyright, turustusõigus allows authorized parties to distribute copies of protected works, such as books, music, films, or software, either physically or digitally. The right can be granted through licensing agreements, which specify the extent, territory, and duration of the distribution rights. These agreements are designed to allow creators and rights holders to control how their works are disseminated and to generate revenue from authorized distribution channels.

Turustusõigus is distinguished from other related rights, such as reproduction or modification rights, as it specifically pertains to the first sale or distribution of a work. Once a work is sold or distributed legally, the holder of the distribution right typically loses control over subsequent sales unless otherwise specified.

The concept is significant in commercial activities, notably in publishing, music, film industries, and franchise operations, where controlling the distribution process is essential for revenue management and brand integrity. In Estonia, as in many jurisdictions, the exercise and transfer of turustusõigus are governed by national copyright laws and international treaties, facilitating cross-border distribution and licensing.

Overall, turustusõigus plays a vital role in balancing the interests of rights holders, distributors, and consumers within the legal framework of intellectual property rights.