Understanding EU Trade Policy on Geographical Indications

This paper explores EU policy on GIs as expressed in finalised EU trade treaties. This empirical approach provides a factual basis about the GI deals which are acceptable to the EU. The paper also identifies GI outcomes in recent treaties driven by US negotiating demands. While US-driven treaties prioritise a trademark approach to GIs, they also allow for co-existence with EU-style strong-form GIs. Comparing these two sets of outcomes provides useful insights for future EU trade negotiations, such as the proposed Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership with the USA or the proposed Free Trade Agreement with Australia and New Zealand