David Campbell, small business minister for New South Wales, has accused the Deckers Outdoor Corporation of “stomping” on a small Australian company that creates ‘Ugg’ sheepskin boots by registering the name as a trademark.

Campbell has called for the Australian government to change the country’s trademark and intellectual property laws to ensure that its smaller manufacturers can continue to produce their products.

He revealed his intention to ask the country’s federal trade minister to approach the US government and the California-based company about the issue.

Sales of Deckers’ ‘Ugg’ branded footwear are soaring. In April 2004, the company reported that ‘Ugg’ sales for the first quarter increased 226% to $5.1 million.

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