Supreme Court Rules “First Sale” Doctrine Applies Abroad

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of Supap Kirtsaeng, a Thai immigrant accused of violating copyright law for reselling works in the U.S. purchased abroad. A number of publishers, joined by the U.S. government and entertainment companies, opposed him, citing danger to copyright holders’ rights.

The Court held today that the “first sale” doctrine applies to works purchased abroad.