GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION AND PREVENTING UNFAIR COMPETITION IN WINE PROTECTION

Abstract

In light of the dynamic evolution of the international trade landscape, there is a growing imperative to enhance the control of product quality. As trade relationships expand within an increasingly competitive global environment, instances of product counterfeiting have surged. This, in turn, has eroded consumer trust in various products. In response to these global trends, it becomes essential to develop mechanisms that can both restore consumer confidence and ensure rigorous quality control in the market. One highly effective strategy for combating unfair competition is the implementation of geographical indication protection for products. Geographical indication defines a product’s origin, quality, reputation, unique characteristics associated with its place of origin and the human elements involved in its production. When consumers choose products protected by geographical indications, they do so with confidence in the precise attributes of the product.

The primary objective of this paper is to highlight the benefits of geographical indication protection, with a specific focus on its relevance to the wine industry. Wine, as a product, derives a significant portion of its quality from its geographical origin, encompassing both historical and technical dimensions. Consequently, this study seeks to explore the role of geographical indication as a potent tool in countering unfair competition, using the wine sector as a prominent and illustrative case study.