What is the distinction between indications of source and geographical indications ?
Geographical indications are direct or indirect indications of a geographical place, independently of whether they are viewed as an indication of the geographical origin by the reference group. Geographical names or signs which are not viewed as indicating a certain origin for goods or services by the reference group are not indications of source in the legal sense of the term. The determining factor for whether a geographical indication represents an indication of source is the existence of an accompanying expectation by the reference group regarding the geographical origin of the goods or services. Example of an indication of source: “Swiss” for machines. Example of geographical indications: “Etna” for Bunsen burners; “North pole” for refrigerators.
