“In the current economic context, strengthening the European system of geographical indications, by providing innovative tools for groups to regulate production volumes as well as protecting names also against the misuse of their reputation, are positive steps. We are pleased to see today the European Institutions setting a clear path for the future of PDO and PGI in the European Union.” says Massimo Vittori, Managing Director of oriGIn.
oriGIn EU’s members also appreciate the emphasis given by the future Common Agricultural Policy to sustainable agriculture, to which PDO and PGI can give a tremendous contribution. Geographical indications have proven to be an instrumental sustainability tool. Producers of these traditional products rely on biodiversity and the protection of the environment in the area where they operate. Likewise, GIs rely on an important network of small and medium-sized companies that provide jobs both directly and indirectly, often in disadvantaged rural areas where there is rarely any alternative to that GI production. Moreover, GIs also help producers improving their position in the value chain as well as securing a better price for their products.
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“oriGIn EU and its members welcome the efforts made by all stakeholders involved to reach a common position and applauds the outcome of the discussions, which reinforces the European Geographical Indication system both for Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indications (PGI) in the wine and food sectors".
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