Indicații Geografice
1. Documentation
What is a geographical indication (GI) and how does the registration process work – it can be done by an industrial property advisor.
2. Product identification
- Determining the product for which a GI is sought (checking the criteria established by law).
3. Association
- Establishing an association or organization to represent the producers involved in the process of registering and protecting the GI.
4. Highlighting the geographical specificity
- Documenting the distinctive elements of the geographical area that influence the quality or characteristics of the product, such as climatic conditions, soil, or traditional production methods.
5. Submitting the application to the Office and paying the fees
6. Preliminary examination
- As a result of checking the fulfillment of legal criteria, additional evidence or documents may be required.
7. Publication and opposition
The application will be published to allow third parties to submit oppositions if they believe the proposed GI conflicts with their rights.
8. Acceptance and registration
- If there are no oppositions or if they are rejected, the application will be accepted and the corresponding certificate will be issued.
9. Protection and promotion
After registration, ensure that the product is produced according to the established standards and promote the GI to enhance its value and recognition. The right to use the geographical indication, acquired through its registration, belongs to the members of the association listed in the register communicated to OSIM.
10. Monitoring and renewal
- It is important to monitor the market to detect unauthorized use of the GI and to act in accordance with the legislation to protect your rights.
(!) The right to use the geographical indication is granted to the applicant for a period of 10 years, with the possibility of unlimited renewal.
(!) The protection duration of geographical indications runs from the date of submission of the application to OSIM and is unlimited.
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