GEOGRAPHIC INDICATIONS
Geographical indications are a subcategory of indications of source and refer to a sign that a product is produced, processed, or has acquired a certain quality, reputation, or feature in a specific geographical region. This sign can include all kinds of features of the product, from natural conditions in a certain geographical region to traditional human-made production methods. Geographical indications aim to protect products identified with a certain geographical region and the quality, reputation, and features of these products.
Appellations of Origin is a subcategory of Geographical Indications. If all or essential qualities of a product originate from natural and human elements belonging to a certain geographical area, geographical indications in this case are called “Appellations of Origin.” Appellation of Origin protection refers to the narrowest and strongest form of protection.
Traditional product name protection can be provided for products that are not covered by the name of origin or geographical indication. There are certain conditions for a product to benefit from traditional product name protection. These conditions include: the product is not covered by the name of origin or geographical indication; the traditional product name of the product has been used for 30 years; the product originates from traditional production, processing, or combination; and the product is produced from traditional raw materials or materials.
Geographical indication protection means the legal protection of a sign indicating that a product was produced, processed, or acquired a certain quality, reputation, or feature in a certain geographical region. This protection benefits both producers and consumers. For producers, they can produce a particular product that is identified with a particular region, gaining an advantage when competing with producers from other regions. For consumers, when buying a certain product, they can be sure of its quality in advance, so they can trust the product they buy. The types of geographical indications are quite varied. The most common include food and beverage products, handicrafts and art products, agricultural products, textile products, and natural resources.