FAO promotes the use of geographical indications to protect agricultural and food systems
In Europe and Central Asia and around the world, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) promotes the identification and registration of new geographical indications in the food and agricultural sectors and improves existing geographical indication schemes to make them simpler and more efficient.
Geographical indications are names used to identify and market agricultural products, as well as other traditional goods, such as handicrafts, production of which is deeply rooted in a specific geographical environment. The unique qualities, properties and reputation of products are determined by their place of geographical origin, climatic conditions, soil composition, traditions, biodiversity, as well as other natural and human factors. Their production and sale help protect rural economies and preserve local traditional knowledge.
According to the organization "oriGIn", more than 40% of geographical indications worldwide originate from European countries.
A successful geographical indication scheme requires a collaborative approach from producers and other relevant stakeholders, a strong protection and enforcement system, and adequate controls to ensure that promises to consumers are kept and product authenticity is guaranteed. To create and maintain an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable GI system, collaboration and interaction between farmers, food processors and retailers, and decision makers is required.
FAO and the Organization for the International Geographical Indications Network (“oriGIn”) jointly organized the third Regional Consultation on Geographical Indications in Europe and Central Asia. The report summarizes relevant research from selected countries in Europe and Central Asia, describes the role of FAO and other development partners, and presents the European Union's approach.
Consumers are often unaware of geographical indication schemes and their benefits, and the proliferation of labels can create confusion that can lead to consumers not understanding or being confident in the unique qualities of GI products.
The report notes that by raising awareness among farmers, food producers and decision-makers about GI systems, geographical indication schemes can realize their potential for environmental conservation, have a major socio-cultural impact and contribute to regional development.
In the coming weeks of this year, several GI awareness events and national conferences will be held with the support of FAO, involving partners and relevant actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Tajikistan, Turkey and Uzbekistan. The events will culminate with the fourth Regional Consultation on Geographical Indications in Europe and Central Asia, which will take place virtually on 11 December. The consultation, jointly organized by oriGIn and the Hungarian Ministry of Agriculture, will focus on sustainability, governance and the role of producer groups.
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