Geographical Indications

Definition

Intellectual property rights that identify goods as originating from a specific geographical location, where a given quality, reputation, or other characteristic is essentially attributable to that origin. Examples include Champagne, Scotch Whisky, and Parmigiano-Reggiano. Geographical indications confer significant competitive advantage and pricing power in agricultural, food and beverage, and craft industries, and are protected under TRIPS and bilateral trade agreements.