Geographical indications (GIs) are another important branch of the intellectual property right (IPR) system and form part of the quality schemes under which the EU protects product names characterized by a close link to their geographical origin and traditional know-how.
Geographical indications protect product names that come from specific geographical regions, with specific qualities or that enjoy a reputation linked to the territory where they are produced. There are three types of geographical indications:
- Protected Designation of Origin (PDO): designates agricultural products, foodstuffs and wines. In terms of requirements, the PDO is the most demanding, as it includes the names of products with the strongest geographical links. In order to obtain it, all stages of the product (production, processing and preparation) must take place in a specific region (for wines: the grapes used must come exclusively from the area where the beverage is produced).
- Protected Geographical Indication (PGI): somewhat less stringent than the PDO, Protected Geographical Indications require in most cases that at least one stage of the production, processing or preparation of the product takes place in a specific region (for wines, 85% of the grapes used must come from the region where the beverage is produced).
- Geographical Indications (GI): GIs are specific to spirits and aromatized wines. Like PGIs, at least one of the distillation or processing stages is normally required to take place in a particular region. Unlike PGI or PDO, it is not necessary that the ingredients come from that region.
The recognition as a geographical indication, apart from certifying the existence of a link between the product and its place of production, has important advantages such as, for example, the possibility of distinguishing quality products, increasing consumer confidence and, of course, making it easier for the producer to market these products.
The protection of a product name as a geographical indication requires its entry in the register of quality products.
How can inmentor® help us?
To obtain GI recognition, lengthy and complex procedures must be followed.
inmentor® offers legal advice services for obtaining geographical indications such as PDO, PGI and GI.
We are also at your disposal for any legal advice related to GIs, including cases of conflict with other rights.
Fill out the form explaining the matter and your needs, we will contact you within 24 hours (business days)
