Why Geographical Indications Matter to SMEs

Many consumers pay close attention to origin of the products they buy. When the source and authenticity matter, using geographical indications (GI) can identify your product as being the real deal. GIs are a name or sign that indicates a product has a certain quality or reputation due to that origin.

These intellectual property rights are typically used for agricultural products, foodstuffs, wine and spirit drinks, handicrafts, and industrial products.

Geographical Indications: An Introduction

Learn about the basic features, use and protection of GIs

How your business can benefit from GIs

GIs can enable your enterprise:

Enhance the reputation of your goods

Build consumer confidence

Communicate your commitment to social responsibility

Support regional economic development

Prevent fraudulent uses that indicate origin

What you need to know about GIs protection

Protection for a GI is granted by a national or regional authority – a special body responsible for GI protection, or an IP office. Protection can be requested by a group of producers, like a cooperative or association.  This group will be responsible for ensuring that the products protected by a GI fulfil certain requirements. In some countries, protection may also be requested by a local government body.

Once a GI gets registered, the right to use it belongs to producers in the geographical area defined in the registration, who comply with the specific conditions of production.

GIs are protected in different countries and regional systems through a wide variety of approaches. You can use the WIPO Lisbon System to obtain protection for GIs in multiple countries or regions.

In many countries, GIs registration is not subject to a specific period of validity, and the protection for a registered GI will remain valid unless the registration is cancelled.

The actual costs of GIs protection vary significantly from country to country and may include:

  • professional fees for completing the application process
  • official fees paid to the national or regional authority
  • translation costs, if filing abroad
  • renewal fees.
  • Protecting a GI enables those who have the right to use the indication to take measures against others who use it without permission and benefit from its reputation (“free-riders”).

    The party allowed to enforce a GI, and the sanctions for unauthorized use, varies from country to country. For more information, consult the relevant national or regional IP office.

    Consider using geographical indications? Explore more about how to protect and use GIs.

    Learn how GIs are used in businesses

    Explore how geographical indications can be used to enhance your business, and find more case studies and stories.

    whisky tasting
    (PHOTO: FLICKR/NADIA FONDELLI))

    The King of Cheese and its IP Crown

    The Consorzio del Formaggio Parmigiano-Reggiano (the Consorzio) is a consortium of cheese makers that was established in 1934 in the Italian Republic (Italy).

    honey comb
    ((PHOTO: CIRD)

    Mondulkiri Wild Honey

    The wild honey from Mondulkiri is now protected by a geographical indication, bringing hopes for increased revenue for harvesters, and heightened protection of wild bee colonies and the forest.

    granmonte vineyard
    (PHOTO: CATHERINE SAEZ)

    Khao Yai Wine – Thailand's Award-Winning New Latitude Wine

    The Khao Yai Wine Geographical Indication is registered by Granmonte Vineyard and Winery together with the Thai Wine Association and was granted in 2018.

    Virtual Exhibition on geographical indications displayed on mobile phone

    Virtual Exhibition on Geographical Indications (archived)

    Archived version