Geographical Indications Law in Morocco
Morocco has established a comprehensive legal framework to protect Geographical Indications (GIs), Appellations of Origin (AOs), and Agricultural Labels (ALs) for its food, agricultural, and fishery products. This system is designed to preserve local heritage, enhance product quality, and improve market access.
🇲🇦 Legal Framework
1. Law No. 25-06 (2008)
This foundational law defines and regulates the recognition, use, and protection of distinctive signs of origin and quality for Moroccan products. It includes:
Geographical Indication (GI): Identifies a product as originating from a specific region, where its quality or reputation is attributable to that origin.
Appellation of Origin (AO): Designates a product whose quality or characteristics are exclusively due to the geographical environment, including both natural and human factors.
Agricultural Label (AL): Recognizes products with specific qualities and characteristics, often linked to their production methods or geographical origin.
2. Decree No. 2-08-403 (2008)
This decree outlines the procedures for applying for recognition of these distinctive signs, including the submission of specifications and the role of certification bodies.
3. Decree No. 2-08-404 (2008)
Establishes the composition and functioning of the National Commission for Distinctive Signs of Origin and Quality, which oversees the recognition and protection processes.
🛡️ Protection and Enforcement
The protection of GIs in Morocco involves:
National Register: Maintained by the Office Marocain de la Propriété Industrielle et Commerciale (OMPIC), it records all recognized GIs and AOs.
Certification Bodies: Authorized public or private institutions responsible for verifying compliance with the established specifications.
Opposition Procedures: Allow stakeholders to contest applications for recognition within a specified period.
Legal Actions: Enforcement against unauthorized use or imitation of protected names, including penalties for infringement.
🌍 International Recognition
Morocco has actively pursued international protection for its GIs:
European Union Agreement: Morocco and the EU signed an agreement to protect Moroccan GIs within the EU, enhancing market access for products like Argan oil and Safran de Taliouine.
WTO Compliance: The GI system aligns with Morocco's obligations under the World Trade Organization's Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement.
🧀 Examples of Protected GIs
Morocco has several products recognized under its GI system:
Dattes Majhoul de Tafilalet: A variety of date known for its unique taste and texture, cultivated in the Tafilalet region.
Fromage de Chèvre de Chefchaouen: A goat cheese from the Chefchaouen region, renowned for its traditional production methods.
Miel d’Euphorbe de Tadla Azilal: A monofloral honey produced from the Euphorbia plant in the Tadla Azilal region.
Amande de Tafraout: Almonds from the Tafraout region, distinguished by their quality and flavor.
✅ Summary
Morocco's legal framework for GIs, encompassing Law No. 25-06 and its implementing decrees, provides a structured approach to recognizing and protecting products with unique geographical attributes. Through national registration and international agreements, Morocco ensures that its distinctive products gain recognition and protection in global markets.
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