Geographical Indications Law in Tunisia
Here’s an overview of the Geographical Indications (GI) Law in Tunisia:
🇹🇳 Geographical Indications Law in Tunisia
1. Legal Framework
Tunisia protects Geographical Indications under Law No. 99-57 of 1999 on the Protection of Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications.
The law is administered by the National Institute for Standardization and Industrial Property (INNORPI).
Tunisia is a member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
2. Definitions
Geographical Indication (GI): A sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics essentially attributable to that origin.
Appellation of Origin (AO): A special category of GI, where the qualities and characteristics are due exclusively or essentially to the geographical environment.
3. Registration Process
Applications for GI registration are submitted to INNORPI.
Required documentation includes:
Identification of the product.
Definition of the geographical area.
Evidence of the link between the product’s qualities and its geographical origin.
Production methods and quality control systems.
The application is examined and published for opposition before registration.
4. Protection
Registered GIs and AOs confer exclusive rights to producers within the defined geographical area.
Unauthorized use or imitation of the GI is prohibited.
Protection applies nationally, enforced through Tunisian courts.
5. Duration and Renewal
GI protection lasts for 10 years and is renewable indefinitely.
6. International Treaties
Tunisia is a party to:
The TRIPS Agreement under WTO membership.
The Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property.
The Lisbon Agreement for Appellations of Origin (Tunisia is a member).
Tunisia cooperates with WIPO for international GI protection.
7. Local Context
Tunisia uses GI protection to promote its traditional products such as olive oil, dates, wine, and textiles.
The government encourages the use of GIs to support rural development and exports.
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