Khelvachauri Tangerine, Keda Chkhaveri, Khulo Potato and Chakvi Tea are in the List of Potential Geographical Indications

In order to define GI products in the Achara region, Mr. Mindia Davitadze, Sakpatenti Chairman, met with Mr. Giorgi Surmanidze, Minister of Agriculture of the Autonomous Republic of Achara. It is the initiative of Sakpatenti, following Acharuli Chlechili and Machakhela Honey, to add to the State Register of Geographical Indications other Acharan products with the specific quality, characteristics and reputation.

At the meeting it was noted that Achara region has great resources for formation of geographical indications, whereas they facilitate improvement of the quality of local products and the economic development of the region. To realize this potential, Sakpatenti plans to make an inventory of potential geographical indications in the Autonomous Republic of Achara and to evaluate the benefits received from their legal protection. The next step on the part of the Office will be rendering assistance to producers, which implies defining the most eligible GI products, determination of their specifications, drafting applications for registration of geographical indications and their registration. Sakpatenti has already conducted the first stage work and revealed the following potential geographical indications: Kobuleti and Khelvachauri Tangerine, Keda Chkhaveri, Tsolikauri and Tomato, Chakvi Tea, Khulo Kaymak and Potato.

Geographical indication is the name of a geographical area, which is used to designate the goods the specific quality, reputation or other characteristics of which are due to a particular geographical environment and human factors. Geographical environment implies soil and water composition, climate, landscape and other natural characteristics. Human factors include the traditional knowledge and experience related to the production existing in the local population.