EU, China sign geographical indications deal

The European Union and China on Monday signed a bilateral agreement to protect geographical indications (GI).

It is a label used on a product to specify its origin.

According to the details, the agreement will protect 100 European GIs and Chinese GIs in the EU from usurpation and imitation.

“The EU list of GIs to be protected in China includes iconic GI products such as Cava, Champagne, Feta, Irish whiskey, Munchener Bier, Ouzo, Polska Wódka, Porto, Prosciutto di Parma, and Queso Manchego,” said an EU statement. “Among the Chinese GI products, the list includes for example Pixian Dou Ban (Pixian Bean Paste), Anji Bai Cha (Anji White Tea), Panjin Da Mi (Panjin rice) and Anqiu Da Jiang (Anqiu Ginger),” it added.

The agreement is expected to enter into force at the beginning of 2021, following the signature of the agreement and the European Parliament.