EL-IG
Geographical indications
A product whose quality is tied to a place — including craft and industrial goods.
A geographical indication identifies a product as originating in a place where quality, reputation or another characteristic is essentially attributable to that origin. Under OAPI law it may cover a natural, agricultural, craft or industrial product. It differs from a collective mark in duration, specifications and geographical area. A collective mark can be a stepping stone to a GI.
Who it is for
Value chains, cooperatives, States, PAMPIG projects, local authorities.
Typical path
- Qualify the subject-matter: what can be protected, and in what form.
- Search prior rights (identical, then similar).
- Prepare and file the application, pay the fees, follow examination.
- Maintain the title, watch the Gazette, enforce if it is attacked.