Ukraine to seek legal safeguards for three new GIs of its national products in EU

Ukraine has announced its plans to obtain legal protection in the European Union for three new geographical indications (GIs) of its national products – Hutsul sheep bryndzya (brinsen cheese), Hutsul cow bryndzya, and Melitopol sweet cherries.

This was reported by the press service of Ukraine's Ministry for Development of Economy, Trade and Agriculture.

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"For Ukrainian manufacturers, legal protection in the EU is an opportunity to enter the European market of products with high added value, which increases the profitability of Ukrainian goods and their reputation, stimulates attention to the regions of their origin and positively influences the development of tourism," it said.

Ukraine's plans for next year are to introduce new geographical indications for honey, nuts, Ukrainian wines.

Preceding developments

In July, Ukraine completed the registration of the geographical name with historical origin "Melitopol Cherries" (sweet cherries).

In December 2019, "Hutsul Sheep Bryndzya" was registered, becoming the first food product in Ukraine with a protected geographical designation of origin.

Background

• The Geographical Indications in Ukraine project is funded by the European Union. It is to be implemented within 2017-2020. The project is designed to help Ukraine develop an identification system for products with properties and reputation primarily due to their place of origin.
• A geographical indication is a sign that is applied to a product and certifies its high quality, a long tradition of production and a special association with the territory where it is made.
• Geographical indications helped such products as champagne, brandy, Roquefort cheese, parmesan and many others gain world fame.