On 3 September, the NGO oriGIn stated that the British position was not clear when it comes to the protection of EU geographical indications (GI) after withdrawal from the EU. This is a matter of concern for the European Commission in negotiations with London (see EUROPE 12086).
The EU’s position is clear, said Michel Barnier, the EU’s chief negotiator for Brexit. He said Brexit must not lead to a loss of existing intellectual property rights. This protection is an international obligation and must be clarified in the withdrawal agreement.
In its July White Paper on future relations with the EU, the United Kingdom announced that “its post-Brexit GIs system will go beyond the WTO TRIPS agreement but failed to provide additional details”, oriGIn states with concern. In its view, the White Paper does not contain a commitment in favour of continued protection of existing GIs. To ensure rights are preserved to a maximum and to avoid disruption of trade, the level of protection currently enjoyed by British GIs (Scotch Whisky, Stilton cheese) at national level and in the future Union of 27, must not be reduced. In addition, this must also be true for existing EU GIs (champagne, etc.) with regards British legislation, oriGIn states. Finally, the British GIs recognised in third countries should continue to benefit from protection. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)