Winds of change in the European vineyard.
The recent approval by the European Parliament of the reform of EU rules strengthening the protection of Geographical Indications (GI) for wines, spirits and agricultural products marks a significant moment for the European wine and agricultural sector. This regulation, which received broad support with 520 votes in favor, 19 against and 64 abstentions, not only extends the protection of GIs in the digital and physical environment, but also grants greater powers to their producers and simplifies the process of record of these indications.
One of the most notable innovations is the requirement for national authorities to take administrative and judicial measures to prevent or stop the illegal use of GIs, both online and offline. This includes closing or restricting access to domain names that illegally use GI through geo-blocking, and the implementation of a domain name alert system by the EU Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO).
Additionally, the new rules clarify that a GI designating a product used as an ingredient can only be used in the name, labeling or advertising of a related processed product if the ingredient in the GI is used in quantities sufficient to confer an essential characteristic on the processed product, and no other product comparable to GI is used. The percentage of the ingredient must also be indicated on the label, and producers of the processed product must notify a recognized producer group of the ingredient, which can issue recommendations on the correct use of the GI.
GI producers will have the ability to prevent or counteract any measure or commercial practice that is detrimental to the image and value of their products, including marketing practices that devalue the products and lowering prices. To increase transparency towards consumers, MEPs also ensured that the name of the producer appears in the same field of view as the geographical indication on the packaging of all GIs. The Commission will be exclusively responsible for the management of the GI system, according to the approved regulation, and the GI registration process will be simpler, establishing a period of up to six months for the verification of applications for new GIs.
This legislative change comes at an opportune time for the European agricultural and wine sector, which has faced unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, in addition to the increase in producer prices. The reform represents not only a significant improvement in the protection and promotion of GI products, but also promises to increase the added value of these products without the need to resort to public funds, according to Paolo De Castro (PSE), rapporteur of the reform. Ultimately, this new GI regulation is good news for European farmers, promising a more simplified, sustainable and transparent system that reinforces the role of producer groups and more effectively protects Geographical Indications.
Source: Vinetur