Identifying Geographical Indications

By Ch.Hamid MalhiPresident, The Heritage Association

Identifying GIs

• What are Geographical Indications?“…….Indications which identify a good as originating in the territory of a Member, or a region or locality in that territory, where a given quality, reputation or other characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographical origin.” (Article 22 of TRIPS Agreement)

Identifying GIs

A GI has….

• Reputation

• Origin

• Quality or

• Any other characteristic linked to origin

Identifying GIs

• A GI …..• Is not created but it exists• Has a link to origin• Has economic importance for its

stakeholders

Identifying GIs• Unique protection of a local development

tool• Value addition to local economy • Prevents relocation of production area • Different from Trade Marks • Ensures collective pride to the producers• Prevents the transfer of traditional methods

to areas outside their origin.

Identifying GIs• A positive effect on the economy• Protect collective rights• Niche products • Low cost to the consumer• Quality competitiveness among

producers • Adherence to common production

procedures of quality and origin.

Identifying GIs

Some identified GIs of Punjab…

Basmati Rice

SARGODHA KINNOW

MULTAN MANGO

Sharaq Pur Guava

Phulkari

Neeli Ravi Buffalo

NILI BUFFALO

SAHIWAL CATTLE

CHOLISTANI CATTLE

DHANNI CATTLE

DAJAL CATTLE

ROJHAN CATTLE

MARECHA CAMEL

Blue Pottery of Multan

Camel Bone Work Multan

Camel Skin Work Multan

Chiniot Wood Work

Lahore Metal Works

Sillanwali Lac Work

Truck Decoration of Qamar Machanni

Sialkot Sports Goods………………

Identifying GIs

A Stakeholder chain committed to• Quality production• Its Protection • Quality assurance to the consumer• Origin certification

Identifying GIs

• Who identifies?• Who defines?• Who protects?• Who maintains quality production?• Who assures quality?

Identifying GIs

The Stakeholders

Identifying GIs

The producers:-• Growers (agricultural products)• Farmers ( livestock)• Artisans (handicrafts)• Craftsmen (handicrafts)

Identifying GIs

• Traders •Businesses• Factory owners• Processors• Exporters

Identifying GIs

• The chain will vary from product to product.• The stake holder share in the final

product would also differ.

Identifying GIs

•Willingness to take the responsibility?•Willingness to share the

responsibility?

Identifying GIs

Who facilitates in: • Arranging data• Developing quality mechanisms• Compiling Application • Filing application• Follow up support

Identifying GIs

•Awareness•Development•Promotion

Identifying GIs

Department of Industries,

Commerce & Investment,

Government of Punjab

ThanksCh.Hamid MalhiPresident, The Heritage Association