Geographical Indications Law in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) has established a legal framework for the protection of Geographical Indications (GIs) and Appellations of Origin (AOs) through the Law on the Protection of Indications of Geographical Origin. This law, adopted in 2010, governs the acquisition, maintenance, content, termination, and legal protection of GIs and AOs within the country. It also applies to internationally registered GIs and AOs recognized in BiH .
🇧🇦 Key Features of BiH’s GI & AO Legal Framework
1. Definitions
Geographical Indication (GI): An indication identifying goods as originating from a specific territory where a particular quality, reputation, or other characteristics are attributable to their geographical origin
Appellation of Origin (AO): A more stringent form of GI, where the quality and specific characteristics are exclusively or substantially due to the geographical environment, including natural and human factors, and the entire production process occurs in the defined area .
2. Registration Process
Initiation: Applications for GIs and AOs must be filed with the Institute for I(Instintellectual Property of Bosnia and Herzegovina (IPR BiH).
Requirements: Applicants must provide:
A detailed description of the geographical area, including administrative boundaries and a map.
Information on the product's specific characteristics, quality, or reputation.
Evidence of the product's link to the geographical area.
Proof of payment of the prescribed fees .
Procedure: The IPR BiH reviews applications, and decisions can be appealed to the Board of Appeal within 15 days. Further appeals can be made to the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina within 30 days .
3. Rights and Obligations
Authorized Users: Entities that meet the criteria and are granted the right to use a registered GI or AO.
Duration: The status of an authorized user lasts for three years and can be renewed indefinitely, provided the conditions are met .
Enforcement: Protection is enforced through administrative procedures and legal actions against unauthorized use or infringement .
4. Recent Developments
EU Recognition: In December 2024, 'Livanjski sir' became the first food product from BiH to receive EU Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, enhancing its marketability and protecting its traditional production methods
Regulatory Updates: In February 2025, BiH implemented regulations on the appearance and use of trademarks for GIs, AOs, and Guaranteed Traditional Specialties, standardizing their visual representation
📌 Additional Resources
For more detailed information or to initiate a GI or AO application in Bosnia and Herzegovina, you may consult the following resources:
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