The Evolution and Significance of Protecting Appellation of Origin

Geographical indication (GIs) or protection of appellations of origin has emerged as a controversial topic in the international intellectual property regime. As the countries like India have established strong systems to protect their products origin based, the United States has assumed a more adaptable tack that weighs the interests of the producers, consumer protection as well as trade requirements. As the global marketplace grows for artisanal and specialty goods, the U.S. system of GIs has become a more important topic of discussion, particularly in the context of discussions of global trade agreements like the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership with the European Union.