Control Exertion on Geographical Indications and the Role of Competent Offices

State control, authorization and certification of geographical indications were among the issues discussed during the training organized by Sakpatenti and the European Union. The event took place within the Twinning Project on “Establishing Efficient Protection and Control System of Geographical Indications (GIs) in Georgia”.

At the training attention was focused on the role, functions and activities of particular offices and control bodies. The participants received information on the experience and knowledge of the European Union in the direction of protection of geographical indications. They also were familiarized with the mechanisms that will enhance the geographical indications system in Georgia, will ensure capacity building and deepen the knowledge in the given area.

The participants of the event also received information on the draft amendments to the legislation of Georgia regulating geographical indications, which will assist them in compliance with and implementation of the regulations in future.

The training was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, National Food Agency, National Wine Agency, associations, producers’ unions and associations of registered and potential geographical indications.

Italian and French experts of the Project delivered presentations at the event. They introduced the experience of Italy and France to the participants regarding certification and control.

The Twinning Project aims to facilitate development of the geographical indications and appellations of origin system in Georgia and its harmonization with the GI protection system of the European Union. The main partner of the Project is the National Intellectual Property Centre of Georgia - Sakpatenti.