The State Intellectual Property Agency (AGEPI) has drafted a law on geographical indications, guaranteed traditional products and optional quality designations. On Wednesday, April 6, the document will be considered in the Commission for European Integration.
The draft law provides for a number of fundamental changes. In particular, it is proposed that:
- simplify and digitalize registration procedures;
- strengthen the protection of geographical indications, including on the Internet and in domain names;
- expand the powers of producers’ associations, which will be able to manage brands and protect their interests;
- introduce elements of sustainable development – environmental, social and economic criteria;
- introduce new voluntary quality labels (e.g., “traditional product” or “family farm product”).
The reform is aimed at harmonizing the legislation with EU norms, which should facilitate the access of Moldovan products to the European market and increase their recognition.
The new rules are expected to increase consumer confidence in the quality and authenticity of goods.
It is worth mentioning that after the signing of the Moldova-EU Association Agreement, the protection on the territory of Moldova was requested for 3,739 geographical indications from the EU, of which 3,648 are valid. At the same time, only 8 geographical indications from the Republic of Moldova are protected in the EU, according to the data for the end of 2024.
