Geographical Indications Law in Hungary
Geographical Indications (GI) Law in Hungary
1. Legal Framework
Hungary is a member of the European Union (EU), and as such, it follows the EU regulations on Geographical Indications (GIs). This means Hungary protects GIs in line with EU law, which provides a comprehensive framework for safeguarding names of agricultural products and foodstuffs linked to specific geographical origins.
2. Relevant Laws and Regulations
EU Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs
This is the principal EU regulation that covers:
Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)
Protected Geographical Indication (PGI)
Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG)
Hungarian national law incorporates these EU rules and provides administrative structures for their application.
Hungary also complies with WTO TRIPS Agreement requirements related to GIs.
3. GI Protection System in Hungary
The Hungarian Ministry of Agriculture (Vidékfejlesztési Minisztérium) is responsible for the implementation and enforcement of GI protection.
Applications for GIs can be submitted at the national level to the Ministry.
For protection at the EU level, applications are submitted through the European Commission after national approval.
Hungary maintains a national register of protected GIs.
4. Types of Protected GIs
PDO (Protected Designation of Origin): The product must be produced, processed, and prepared in a given geographical area using recognized know-how.
PGI (Protected Geographical Indication): At least one stage of production, processing, or preparation takes place in the area.
TSG (Traditional Speciality Guaranteed): Focuses on traditional character, either in composition or means of production, without a specific link to geographical origin.
5. Examples of Hungarian GIs
Hungary has several well-known products protected under GI schemes, including:
Tokaji (famous wine region) – PDO
Hortobágyi palacsinta (stuffed pancake) – PGI
Various regional cheeses, meats, and other agricultural products.
6. Enforcement and Protection
Hungarian authorities, including customs and market inspection bodies, enforce GI protections.
Unauthorized use of protected GI names can lead to penalties under Hungarian law.
Legal remedies are available for producers and associations whose GI rights are infringed.
Summary:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing law | EU Regulation 1151/2012; Hungarian national law |
| Competent authority | Hungarian Ministry of Agriculture |
| Types of GI protection | PDO, PGI, TSG |
| International compliance | WTO TRIPS Agreement |
| Enforcement | National market authorities and customs |
| Examples of Hungarian GIs | Tokaji (PDO), Hortobágyi palacsinta (PGI), regional cheeses |
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