Geographical Indications Law in Iceland
Iceland protects Geographical Indications (GIs) through both national legislation and international agreements, notably its participation in the European Economic Area (EEA) and bilateral agreements with the European Union (EU).
🇮🇸 National Legal Framework
Iceland's primary legislation governing GIs is the Act No. 130/2014 on the Protection of Product Names as Designations of Origin, Geographical Indications, or Traditional Specialities. This law establishes the legal basis for registering and protecting GIs within Iceland. The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST) is the national authority responsible for the registration and oversight of GIs in Iceland
🇪🇺 EU-Iceland Agreement on GIs
In 2017, Iceland and the EU concluded an agreement to protect GIs for agricultural products and foodstuffs. Under this agreement, Iceland recognizes and protects GIs registered in the EU, and vice versa. The agreement applies to agricultural products and foodstuffs other than wines, aromatised wine products, and spirit drinks.
The agreement establishes a framework for mutual recognition of GIs, including provisions for the addition of new GIs through a joint committee process. It also outlines the scope of protection against misuse, imitation, or evocation of protected names.
🔄 Recent Developments
In 2023, Iceland proposed an additional GI to be protected under the EU-Iceland agreement. The European Commission is currently considering whether this geographical indication shall be protected under the agreement. The Commission has invited any interested parties to submit oppositions to such protection.
🏛️ Enforcement and Administration
The Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST) is responsible for the registration and enforcement of GIs within Iceland. They maintain a register of protected GIs and ensure compliance with the relevant legislation. MAST also collaborates with EU authorities to ensure the mutual recognition and protection of GIs under the EU-Iceland agreement.
🔗 International Agreements
Iceland is a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and adheres to international agreements such as the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. These memberships facilitate Iceland's participation in global intellectual property frameworks, including the protection of GIs.
✅ Summary
National Legislation: Act No. 130/2014 on the Protection of Product Names as Designations of Origin, Geographical Indications, or Traditional Specialities.
National Authority: Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST)
International Agreements: EU-Iceland Agreement on the Protection of Geographical Indications for Agricultural Products and Foodstuffs
International Memberships: World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Paris Convention
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