Geographical Indications Law in Cyprus
Geographical Indications (GI) Law in Cyprus
Cyprus has a comprehensive legal framework for the protection of Geographical Indications (GIs) for agricultural products and foodstuffs, aligning with European Union regulations and international standards.
1. National Legislation
Law No. 139(I)/2006: This law governs the protection of appellations of origin and GIs for agricultural products and foodstuffs in Cyprus. It implements Council Regulation (EC) No. 510/2006, which pertains to the protection of GIs and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs. The law outlines the responsibilities of the Competent Authority, including the examination of proposed registrations, maintenance of a register, and enforcement of regulations. It also provides for the establishment of an advisory committee, the appointment of inspectors, and the imposition of penalties for violations. (Leap)
2. European Union Framework
Cyprus, as an EU member state, participates in the EU's GI protection system, which includes:
Protected Designation of Origin (PDO): Indicates that a product is produced, processed, and prepared in a specific region using recognized know-how.
Protected Geographical Indication (PGI): Indicates that at least one stage of production, processing, or preparation occurs in the specific region.
Traditional Specialities Guaranteed (TSG): Recognizes traditional products with specific characteristics.
The EU's GI system ensures that products bearing these labels meet strict criteria and are protected against misuse and imitation.
3. Recent Developments
Halitzia Tillirias: In December 2023, the European Commission approved "Χαλίτζια Τηλλυρίας / Halitzia Tillirias," a soft to semi-hard white cheese from Cyprus, as a PGI. This cheese is made from heat-treated fresh goat's milk and has a distinctive texture and flavor. (cyprus.representation.ec.europa.eu)
Craft and Industrial Products: As of November 2023, the EU Regulation 2023/2411 provides protection for GIs related to craft and industrial products. This regulation aims to safeguard traditional craftsmanship and prevent counterfeiting. Cyprus, which previously lacked a national system for such protections, now benefits from this EU-wide framework. (Cyprus Mail)
4. Notable Protected Products
Cyprus boasts several products with PDO and PGI status:
Commandaria: A sweet dessert wine produced in 14 villages in the Troodos region, with PDO status.(Chrysostomides)
Loukoumi Geroskipou: A traditional Turkish delight from Geroskipou, awarded PDO status in 2007.(Chrysostomides)
Lountza Pitsilias: A cured meat from the Pitsilia region, recognized as a PGI in 2021.(Chrysostomides)
Kolokasi of Sotira: A unique taro variety from Sotira, granted both PDO and PGI status. (Chrysostomides)
5. Registration Process
The registration process for GIs in Cyprus involves:
Application Submission: Producers submit an application to the Competent Authority, detailing the product's characteristics and production methods.
Examination: The application is examined to ensure compliance with EU regulations and national laws.
Publication: Approved applications are published, allowing for public opposition.
Registration: Upon successful examination and resolution of any opposition, the GI is registered and protected.
6. Enforcement and Protection
Cyprus enforces GI protections through:
Inspections: Regular inspections of production facilities to ensure compliance with GI standards.
Penalties: Imposition of fines and other penalties for unauthorized use of protected GIs.
Legal Actions: Pursuit of legal actions against infringers to uphold the integrity of protected GIs.
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