19/07/2019 (Agence Europe) – A new EU/China round of negotiations will take place in the week of 22 July to ratify an agreement on geographical indications (GIs). According to the European Commission, work is continuing with a positive commitment from both sides, in the spirit of the joint declaration of the last EU/China summit last April. In fact, a consensus had been identified at that point, with a view to ratifying an agreement on GIs before the end of 2019 (see EUROPE 12232/7). However, it is believed that the resumption of talks between Beijing and Washington could thwart these ambitions. Being particularly hostile to European GIs, the United States could put pressure on Beijing to withdraw its commitment to Europe (see EUROPE 12243/2). The Chinese agri-food market is a key market, with a keen interest in European products. (HD)