Geographical Indications and WTO Negotiations (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
July 14, 2003 |
| Report Number |
RS21569 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Charles E. Hanrahan, Resources, Science, and Industry Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
The issue of expanding intellectual property protections for geographical indications for wines,
spirits, and agricultural products is being debated in the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Geographical indications are important in international trade because they are commercially
valuable. Some European and developing countries want to establish tougher restrictions and limits
on the use of geographical names for products, while the United States and associated countries
argue that the existing level of protection of such terms is adequate. Decisions about the future
scope of protection of geographical indications will be made as the current (Doha) round of
multilateral trade negotiations continues. Congress is monitoring the negotiations and their potential
impacts on U.S. producers. This report will be updated as events warrant.
