Geographical Indications Law in Gabon
Gabon protects Geographical Indications (GIs) through its membership in the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI), which administers a unified intellectual property system for its member states. The legal framework for GIs in Gabon is primarily based on the Bangui Agreement, a treaty that governs various aspects of intellectual property, including GIs, across OAPI member countries
Legal Framework
Bangui Agreement: Gabon is a party to the Bangui Agreement, which provides a comprehensive legal framework for the protection of GIs among OAPI member states. This agreement outlines the procedures for registration, rights conferred, and enforcement mechanisms related to GIs.
Lisbon Agreement and Geneva Act: Gabon is also a signatory to the Lisbon Agreement for the Protection of Appellations of Origin and their International Registration, as well as its Geneva Act. These international treaties, administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), facilitate the protection of GIs across member countries and provide a system for international registration.
Institutional Framework
OAPI: The African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) is responsible for the registration and administration of GIs in Gabon. Applications for GI protection are submitted to OAPI, which evaluates and grants protection applicable across all member states.(QUNO)
National Liaison Structure: Within Gabon, the OAPI National Liaison Structure (OGAPI) serves as the intermediary between applicants and OAPI, assisting with the preparation and submission of applications.(Africa GI)
Recent Developments
In October 2023, efforts were made to register "Pierre de Mbigou," a traditional soapstone from Gabon, as a GI. A workshop organized by the AfrIPI project, in collaboration with OAPI and the European Union Delegation in Gabon, focused on drafting specifications and developing an action plan for its registration.
Enforcement and Benefits
GI protection in Gabon serves to:
Prevent Misuse: Ensure that only products genuinely originating from a specific region can use the protected name.
Promote Economic Development: Enhance the marketability of local products, potentially leading to increased income for producers.
Preserve Cultural Heritage: Safeguard traditional knowledge and practices associated with specific products.
RELATED Blog
0 comments