Geographical Indications Law in Sweden
Geographical Indications (GI) Law in Sweden
1. Legal Framework
Sweden, as a member of the European Union (EU), follows the EU legal framework for Geographical Indications (GIs). The primary legislation governing GIs in Sweden includes:
EU Regulation (EU) No 1151/2012 on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs — covers Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), and Traditional Specialities Guaranteed (TSG).
Swedish national laws implement and complement EU regulations.
Sweden complies with international agreements such as the WTO TRIPS Agreement.
2. Types of GI Protection
Protected Designation of Origin (PDO - Ursprungsbeteckning)
Products produced, processed, and prepared entirely within a specific geographical area, with qualities or characteristics essentially due to that area.
Protected Geographical Indication (PGI - Garanti för geografisk beteckning)
Products with at least one stage of production, processing, or preparation in the defined geographical area, showing a link to that area.
Traditional Specialities Guaranteed (TSG - Traditionell specialitet garanterad)
Protects traditional product characteristics without a geographical link.
3. Registration Process
Applications are submitted through the Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket), which acts as the national authority.
Applications undergo national scrutiny, followed by submission to the European Commission for EU-wide registration.
A public opposition period follows before final approval.
Once registered, the GI enjoys protection throughout the EU, including Sweden.
4. Enforcement
Swedish authorities, including the Swedish Food Agency (Livsmedelsverket) and customs, enforce GI protection.
Infringement may lead to fines, injunctions, and criminal penalties.
Judicial remedies are available to GI right holders.
5. International Treaties
Sweden, through the EU, adheres to the WTO TRIPS Agreement.
It is also bound by the Lisbon Agreement for the protection of appellations of origin.
Bilateral agreements on GI protection are active within the EU framework.
6. Examples of Swedish GIs
Kalix Löjrom (Kalix vendace roe) – PDO
Gotland Ringblomma (marigold from Gotland) – PGI
7. Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Governing Law | EU Regulation 1151/2012; Swedish implementation laws |
| Competent Authority | Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket) |
| Types of Protection | PDO (Ursprungsbeteckning), PGI, TSG |
| Registration Process | National application, EU-level registration |
| Enforcement | Swedish Food Agency, customs, courts |
| International Compliance | WTO TRIPS, Lisbon Agreement, EU bilateral agreements |
RELATED Blog
0 comments