Geographical Indications

A geographical indication (GI) is a name or sign used to indicate the geographical location or origin (e.g. a town, region, or country) of certain products. The use of GI allows the consumer to identify products which have certain qualities, which may be due to the use of certain traditional methods of manufacturing or due to the fact that such products enjoy certain reputation and distinctive features which is essentially attributable to the fact of its origin in that defined geographical locality, region or country.

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GI is registrable by association of persons or producers or by an organization or authority established under any law representing the interest of the producers. It can be renewed after each 10 years.

In India, the protection of geographical indicators is governed by The Geographical Indicators of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999, that seeks to provide for registration and better protection of geographical indications relating to goods in India. The registration of geographical indications confers certain rights on the registered proprietor and the authorized user and they can institute suit for infringements of geographical indications. The Firm assists its clients in registration and better protection of geographical indications.