Geographical Indication: Valorize and Protect Your Product with Certified Origin

A Geographical Indication (GI) is a quality seal that certifies the origin of a product or service, ensuring it has unique characteristics linked to the place where it is produced. In Brazil, this protection is regulated by the Industrial Property Law (Lei nº 9.279/96) and is divided into two categories:

Indication of Source (Indicação de Procedência - IP): certifies that a region is traditionally known for producing a certain product or service.

Denomination of Origin (Denominação de Origem - DO): certifies that the product's characteristics are directly linked to the natural and human conditions of the region.

Benefits of Geographical Indication

Differentiation and Commercial Value: Products with a GI enjoy greater recognition and added value in the market.

Protection Against Copies and Misuse: Certification prevents third parties from improperly using the geographical name.

Boosting Tourism and the Local Economy: Strengthens the regional economy and encourages gastronomic and cultural tourism.

Access to New Markets: Products with a GI are more competitive and valued internationally.

Examples of Brazilian Products with Geographical Indication

Queijo do Serro cheese (Minas Gerais)

Cocoa from Southern Bahia (Bahia)

Wines from Vale dos Vinhedos (Rio Grande do Sul)

Coffee from Cerrado Mineiro (Minas Gerais)

How to Apply for a Geographical Indication?

The application is filed with the National Institute of Industrial Property (Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial - INPI) through a producers' association. The process includes proving the product's tradition and quality, as well as defining the geographical area.