Geographical indication

Indication of a product's source A geographical indication (GI) is a name or sign protected by intellectual property used on products which corresponds to a specific geographical location or origin (e.g., a town or region) and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. The use of a geographical indication, as an indication of the product's source, is intended as a certification that the product possesses certain qualities, is made according to traditional methods, or enjoys a good reputation due to its geographical origin. A geographical indication differs from appelation of origin (also referred to as a designation of origin) since the last is a special type of geographical indication where the link with the place of origin must be stronger and it requires more criteria for recognition. For a GI the geographical link is more flexible, since it is sufficient for only one characteristic of the product to be attributable to its geographical origin. Legal definitions Article 22.1 of the TRIPS Agreement from 1995 defines geographical indications as "...indications which identify a good as originating in the territory of a Member [of the World Trade Organization], or