Why a product classification system for geographical indication protection is important

This article argues that the establishment of a special product classification for geographical indication (GI) in the intellectual property (IP) legal system is important to make the registration process easier and more comprehensive. This article explains arguments in favour to the establishment of GI product classification and aims to propose a model of GI product classification that may be applicable for different countries. Data in this article were obtained by qualitative research. Descriptive analysis and legal comparison were used to explore the arguments about the importance of GI product classification. An exploratory approach was used to compose a single model of GI product classification system. The research results show that establishing GI product classification is important because of administrative, substantive and specific reasons. Unlike classifications for trademarks, patents or industrial designs registration systems, classification for GI is likely to have more substantial significance rather than merely administrative.