The European Union and China have today signed a bilateral agreement on the protection of geographical indications. Specifically, the agreement will provide protection for 100 European Geographical Indications (GIs) in China, and similarly, 100 Chinese GIs will be protected in the EU.

The agreement – which was concluded in November 2019 – protects European GIs such as Cava, Champagne, Feta, Port, and Prosciutto di Parma, as well as Chinese GIs such as Pixian Bean Paste, Anji White Tea, and Panjin Rice. Notably, the Lombard products included are Asiago, Bresaola della Valtellina, Taleggio, Gorgonzola, and Franciacorta.

The Chinese market is of significant interest to the EU, as China is a major trading partner: in 2019, it was the third-largest destination for EU agri-food products, reaching a value of €14.5 billion. China is also the second-largest destination for EU exports of products protected as geographical indications, accounting for 9% of the total value, including wines, agri-food products, and spirit drinks.

The legislative process stipulates that following the signing of the agreement and approval by the European Parliament, it will be officially adopted by the Council: entry into force is expected by early 2021.

It should also be noted that within four years of its entry into force, the scope of the agreement is expected to expand further to cover an additional 175 GI names from both sides. These names will be subject to a similar approval procedure to that of the 100 names already covered by the agreement.

The full list of European GIs protected in China under the agreement can be downloaded at the bottom of this news item.

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