Closing Ceremony Marks End of Successful Geographical Indication Project in Georgia

Irakli Khuturidze is a dynamic 21-year-old entrepreneur from Tusheti in Georgia, who has become one of the youngest and most passionate producers of Guda cheese. With a deep connection to the local culture and traditions, Irakli recently took part in an initiative between WIPO and National Intellectual Property Center (SAKPATENTI) to promote the value of the GI for Tushetian Guda cheese.

Speaking at the project’s closing ceremony on April 30, 2024, Irakli said: "Sharing of international experiences regarding the benefits of GI helps us to improve ways to protect the quality and reputation of our products. The international experience gained in the present paves the way for a better future."

The closing ceremony, held on April 30, 2024, provided a comprehensive overview of the strides made in enhancing the recognition and marketability of Tushetian Guda cheese, underscoring its unique connection to its geographical origin.

A significant highlight of the ceremony were the interactive counters where producers offered tastings of the Tushetian Guda, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the quality and uniqueness of the cheese. Representatives from Sakpatenti also set up an informational stand to educate visitors about the specifics and significance of the Tushetian Guda cheese GI.

Throughout the project’s duration, approximately 30 beneficiaries, including GI producers of Guda cheese, government officials involved in GI administration were supported in areas such as collective management, branding, and commercialization.

The initiative has also facilitated the creation of a new producers’ association, significantly boosting collective management efforts and providing a robust support structure for Guda cheese makers. A Code of Conduct was drafted to guide the practices of cheese producers, ensuring adherence to high standards and ethical production methods.

For lasting impact, the WIPO Academy, in cooperation with the IP Training Center of SAKPATENTI, plans to integrate the materials developed during the project into their training courses, expanding the benefits to a broader audience of producers and stakeholders.

As this chapter closes, the foundation laid by the project promises sustained growth and innovation in the region's cheese production, ensuring that the legacy of Tushetian Guda will continue to thrive and inspire both current and future generations of producers.

Background

The Regional and National Development Sector (RNDS) Projects Team, in collaboration with SAKPATENTI, initiated the project entitled "Collective Management, Branding, and Commercialization of Selected Registered GI in Georgia." Launched in October 2023, the project aims to support GI producers on post-registration branding and marketing of their products and was launched in Mtskheta, Georgia.