What are Geographical Indications, Appellations of Origin and Indication of Source?
The expression Geographical Indications has different meanings depending on the jurisdiction and the context in which it is used. However, Geographical Indications (GIs), a relatively new type of intellectual property, is a generic term that has been adopted at international forums to distinguish products on the market based on the quality and reputation associated with their place or area of production. GIs are not limited to agricultural products but applies mostly to goods (although some countries extended it to services). As any intellectual property right, GIs grant an exclusivity of use to all producers who make their products in the place designated by a GIs and whose products share typical qualities, protecting the product name from misuse and imitation. Unlike other intellectual property, GIs cannot be transferred or assigned. Most countries recognise GI rights arising from registration made by a government based in the law (although some countries, like Singapore, grant autom
