Representatives of the State Agency on Intellectual Property (AGEPI) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAFI) met to discuss about improving the regulations on geographical indications (GIs), appellations of origin (AOs) and traditional specialties guaranteed (TSGs) in the Republic of Moldova.

The meeting took place as a result of the effective cooperation between the two institutions. AGEPI and MAFI representatives analyzed in detail the current situation, the results obtained and the impediments to the successful use of GIs, AOs, TSGs. Key aspects have been identified that require clearer regulations and their adaptation to European standards.

An important topic of discussion was the identification of solutions to ensure the placing on the market of products with protected geographical indication, protected appellation of origin or TSG. Currently, the lack of compliance verification bodies for some categories of products designated with PGIs, PAOs makes it impossible to place them on the market and increases the disinterest of producers in the field.

The need to adapt the national regulatory framework to the acquis of the European Union regarding the protection of geographical indications was also addressed. This step is crucial to allow the Republic of Moldova to benefit from the advantages offered by the European market and to strengthen its position as a recognized producer of quality products with guaranteed origin.

This strategic cooperation between AGEPI and MAFI will contribute to the strengthening of the agricultural and food sector and will bring benefits to both domestic producers and consumers by ensuring greater transparency and certainty regarding the authenticity and quality of products with geographical indications, appellations of origin or traditional specialties guaranteed, including by promoting the respective products both on the internal and international markets.