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PDO and GI protection with China: agreement

After more than thirteen years of conversations, the European Union has reached a agreement for the protection of PDO and GI with China. That is, to recognize Geographical Indications and European Designations of Origin. These negotiations began in mid-2006 and ended last November. Finally, today it has been signed and it is already a firm agreement. This signing coincides with the summit between the EU and China to be held electronically. It is focused on searching trade agreements and investment.

The agreement signed and that the European Union has described as historic will come into force foreseeably in January 2021, once ratified by parliament. This agreement will recognize a total of 100 protected geographical indications and appellations of origin. It is expected that it will be expanded and that 175 more will be included in the next four years.

Twelve Spanish products protected in China

Among the 100 products that will enjoy protection in China from next year 12 will be Spanish. The designations of origin of wine lucky they are Rioja, La Mancha, Valdepenas, Cava, Navarra, Catalonia, Jerez, Valencia. Also the Protected indication of Brandy from Jerez. Regarding appellations of origin of oil the agreement recognizes the Priego de Córdoba and the Sierra Mágina. Finally, the denomination of origin will also be recognized in the Asian country Manchego cheese.

Other recognized non-Spanish products are Champagne, Feta, Irish whiskey, Münchener Bier, Ouzo, Polska Wódka, Porto and Prosciutto di Parma. On the other hand, the Chinese products with geographical indication to be protected will be, for example, Pixan Dou Ban (Pixian bean paste), Anji Bai Cha (Anji white tea), Panjin Da Mi (Panjin rice) and Anqiu Da Jiang (ginger Anqiu).

fusion between chamomile and fine wine
Specialist pulling fine wine from Jerez / Photo: sherry.wine

Objectives of PDO and GI protection with China

The recognition of these products has a double objective for the European Union. First, protecting products that have a international prestige. For this reason, this agreement protects guarantee its authenticity as well as preserve the Good reputation. Secondly, there is the great commercial potential that China has for the European Union, which is currently the second largest agri-food export zone.

Ultimately, this agreement of PDO and GI protection with China is a great growth opportunity for the Spanish and European agri-food sector. It is also true for consumers in both areas, who will have a greater guarantee of the authenticity of the products.

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