The European Union Intellectual Property Office has announced the official registration of the first 17 craft and industrial geographical indications, out of 75 initial notifications. This measure provides a legal framework for the protection of specific regional qualities and traditional skills associated with European artisanal goods.
First Registrations Across Five Countries
This initial group of officially protected products spans five countries, covers a variety of material disciplines, and represents the transfers of existing national rights to the new European system. The registered crafts include:
- France: Porcelaine de Limoges, Argiles du Velay, Granit de Bretagne, Pierres Marbrières de Rhône-Alpes, Poteries d’Alsace, and Vannerie de Fayl-Billot.
- Portugal: Louça Preta de Molelos, Lenços de Namorados do Minho, Bracejo de Sortelha, Cantarinha dos Namorados de Guimarães, Entrançados de Palha de Fafe, Estanhos Artísticos de Bodiosa, and Junco de Forjães.
- Slovenia: Idrijska čipka lacework.
- Slovakia: Kyjatické hračky wooden toys and Senohradská výšivka embroidery.
- Czechia: Vamberecká krajka lacework.
Explore the Union register of GIs for craft and industrial products>>
New Examination Guidelines Published
The EUIPO has also released the Guidelines for the examination of geographical indications for craft and industrial products. This publication serves as a reference document and details the official application procedures, registration frameworks, and opposition proceedings. The guidelines are designed to assist local communities in navigating the legal administration process of registering the Geographical indications for Crafts and Industrial Products.
Browse the Craft Geographical Indication Guidelines>>
photo: Argiles du Velay