EU-China Geographical Indications (GIs) Seminar

Project Overview

Location:
China

Dates:
Feb - Sept 2004

Funding Body:
European Commission, DG Trade

Project Status:
Completed

The General Administration of Quality Supervision Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) and The Commission of the European Communities have worked jointly to bring to fruition this conference on the Protection of Geographical Indications (GI’s). The conference was an important step for both sides on the path to cooperation in enhancing the recognition, protection and trade in GI’s.

The seminar brought together GI experts from China and Europe as well as other Asian countries, the US and South America to discuss a range of challenges and opportunities. These included the role of GI’s in rural development and best practices in the legislative, administrative and technical development of GI’s.

In addition to the panel of distinguished local and international speakers, the conference brought together national and provincial representatives from AQSIQ, the Ministry of Commerce MOFCOM, and the Agricultural Ministry, representatives from provincial governments and European member state embassies.

DS worked with the European Commission and AQSIQ to support all aspects of planning and implementation of the seminar and related activities. DS worked to support technical dialogue between 6 European GI experts and their Chinese counterparts as well as in the fields of venue preparation, website development, press activity and reporting.