Presentation of the European Union Project “Establishing Efficient Protection and Control System of Geographical Indications (GIs) in Georgia”

On November 7, 2019, the EU-funded Twinning Project “Establishing Efficient Protection and Control System of Geographical Indications (GIs) in Georgia” was launched officially. The kick-off meeting of the Twinning Project, held at Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace, was opened by H.E. Mr. Carl Hartzell, Ambassador of the European Union to Georgia.

The Twinning Project is the component of wider EU sectoral support to Georgia.  1.5 million Euro was allocated by  the European Union on implementation of the project. The Project was entrusted to relevant national authorities (Italy and France) of EU member states. The main beneficiary of the Project is the National Intellectual Property Center of Georgia Sakpatenti. Within the Project Sakpatenti is given an opportunity, with the assistance of EU, through sharing experience and knowledge of leading countries, to create administrative and institutional mechanisms which will enhance the GI protection and control system in Georgia,  strengthen the capacity and deepen the knowledge of the national institutions in this field. The Project also envisages increasing the role of producers associations and unions in the development of the GIs protection system. The Project will conclude on January 2021 and it is implemented by the Italian Ministry of Agricultural Food Forestry Policies (MIPAAF) and the French Ministry of Agriculure and Food (MAA). 

Geographical indications are an effective tool which facilitates raising the awareness and increasing the competitiveness of the unique local goods related with the natural environment and cultural heritage. The development of the GI system and the intellectual property system in general is one of the main priorities of the Government of Georgia and its protection is a significant issue within the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) with the EU.