National Rums get temporary relief in industry fight

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.”