Strengthening Sustainable Food Systems through Geographical Indications: Evidence from 9 Worldwide Case Studies

Abstract

Geographical Indications (GIs) refer to products with specific characteristics, qualities, or reputations which result from their geographical origin. Geographical Indications are Intellectual Property Rights that are defined in international agreements (WTO-TRIPS, WIPO Lisbon agreement) as well as in multilateral (European regulation, and other regional laws), and national laws. This paper presents research results from a collection and analysis of data on the economic impact of GI processes worldwide. GI “processes” are understood as the interconnections between products which have a strong reputation, the relevant stakeholders, especially the producers (farmers and processors), and the public authorities in charge of the registration and the protection of the use of the related geographical name. Nine case studies have been selected to ensure a range of diverse situations by country, agricultural sector, market, size of the value chain, legal protection framework (sui generis or trademark), and type of strategy (promotion or protection). This analysis shows that there are various mechanisms which support the positive effects of the GI process on price, regardless of the type of product, the region of origin, and whether the GI is long established or recently registered. GIs generate a higher value distribution to primary producers, and have a positive influence on production, especially in the long term. GIs enhance market access, and they can be useful tools for building resilient value chains, especially by boosting the diversification of markets. Through a domino effect, GIs can also have a substantial positive impact on other sectors of the economy.