Preserving traditional skills, supporting local jobs and helping consumers recognize high-quality, genuine European products: this is the aim of the new EU geographical indications (GI) system, operational from today 1 December.
The system allows glassmakers, potters, cutlers, goldsmiths and other European craftsmen to be able to register the names of their productsby applying individually or through recognized associations.
It’s about the first time that this possibility has been extended to non-agricultural products, such as Murano glass, Bohemian glass, Limoges porcelain, Solingen knives and Donegal tweed. Products whose reputation and quality derive from their place of origin.
The ability to obtain the geographical indication will safeguard traditional skills, support local employment and help consumers to recognize authentic, high-quality European products.
Geographical indication of industrial products, how to apply
Producers can apply through a recognized association or individually.
Each question must include a “product information leaflet” describing the name, production process and geographical area, and must be submitted to the competent national authority in the EU Member States.
The IG registration procedure includes two phasesone at national level and the second at European level.
During the first phase, the competent authority examines the application and initiates a national opposition procedure. During the second phase the application is then assessed by the EUIPO, which manages the opposition procedure at EU level and decides on protection and registration.
The procedure is the same for all EU countries, except for Denmark, Finland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands and Swedenwho obtained a waiver for the national phase.
By virtue of this exemption, Producers will exceptionally be able to apply directly to the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), which manages the entire procedure.
The Commission can intervene in cases where a registration could affect public order or trade and the EU’s external relations.
Guidelines, templates and contacts are available on the EUIPO CIGI Hub, including information on financial and technical support.
