A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used to indicate that a product has a specific geographical origin and possesses a certain reputation or qualities due to that place of origin.
Presently, there is no unitary protection provided for non-agricultural products from a specific geographical origin possessing certain qualities or made according to traditional methods. Nonetheless, it is not debatable that the European Union is rich in non-agricultural products too, and thus they are an integral part of the Union’s identity and cultural heritage.
In September 2015 the European Parliament adopted a non-binding resolution to extend the EU-wide protection of Geographical Indication from agricultural products to include regionally and locally manufactured goods and handicraft products. This includes handicraft products, such as Bohemian glass, Scottish tartan and of course the “lefkaritiko”, a lace embroidery of Lefkara in Cyprus.
The resolution calls on the Commission to propose legislation to extend the EU-wide protection of Geographical Indications.
As the EU is also rich in non-agricultural products, such a change would certainly stimulate technological and economic development. In addition, the economic, cultural and social potential, in terms of tourism promotion and jobs creation, is obvious.
Our Intellectual Property Department has the expertise and the know-how to advise and assist in all matters concerning intellectual property, including of course geographical indications. For further information please contact our Intellectual Property team.
