Five Ways Geographical Indications Can Support SMEs

Geographical indications (GIs) are intellectual property (IP) rights that serve to identify a product that originates from a specific geographical area and that has a quality, reputation, or other characteristics that are essentially attributable to its geographical origin.

Explainer video: Geographical indications and WIPO’s Lisbon System

GIs can enable SMEs to:

Enhance the reputation of their goods

Build consumer confidence

Communicate their commitment to social responsibility

GI-certified products provide consumers with information about their origin and method of production and also enable GI certified producers to demonstrate their commitment to broader societal issues, for example, by adopting environmental, health, and labor- friendly policies. Often, the strong link between the products and their geographical origin focuses attention on the need to preserve local natural resources without which long-term production would be impossible. That's why producers of origin-based products are particularly motivated to adopt environmentally sustainable production methods. SMEs that decide to use the GI to promote sustainability are rewarded when informed and conscious consumers choose their sustainable GI-certified products over others in the market.