On 20 November 2017, the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office, in cooperation with the Italian Embassy in Türkiye, organized the “Seminar on Turkish and Italian Experiences for Geographical Indications” in Ankara. The event brought together representatives from public institutions, academia, producer associations, and intellectual property professionals to discuss the protection, promotion, and economic value of geographical indications (GIs).
During the seminar, experts from both Türkiye and Italy shared their experiences regarding the registration, management, and enforcement of geographical indications, emphasizing the important role that GIs play in preserving cultural heritage, supporting rural development, and enhancing the international competitiveness of local products. Particular attention was given to the European approach to GI protection and the growing importance of international cooperation in this field.
Italian participants presented successful examples of protected regional products and explained how geographical indication systems contribute to branding strategies and consumer trust. Turkish officials and specialists, on the other hand, highlighted recent developments in Türkiye’s geographical indication framework and ongoing efforts to increase awareness and protection of local products at both national and international levels.
The seminar also provided an opportunity to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Türkiye and Italy in the field of intellectual property and to encourage further exchange of expertise regarding geographical indications and traditional products.