Geographical Indication (GI) Recognition is a form of intellectual property protection that identifies a product as originating from a specific geographic region. The recognition acknowledges the unique qualities of a product that are derived from the combination of its origin, soil, water, climate, and human creativity. The recognition also ensures that the product is produced under specific guidelines and regulations that maintain its quality and authenticity. GI recognition not only helps protect the intellectual property rights of the producers but also contributes to the economic and social development of the region by promoting its cultural and traditional heritage.
Origin: The origin of a product refers to the specific geographic region from where it is produced. The natural and cultural environment of the region has a significant influence on the characteristics of the product. The origin could include factors such as soil type, landscape, altitude, and other environmental conditions that affect the growth and quality of the product.
Soil: Soil is an essential factor in determining the quality and characteristics of a product. The soil type, structure, fertility, and other factors influence characteristics of the product. For example, the mineral composition of the soil could influence the taste of tea, or coffee.
Water: Water is another key component that determines the features of a product. The quality, quantity, and source of water utilized in the production process could the product.
Climate: Climate refers to the overall weather conditions in a certain geographic region. The temperature, humidity, rainfall, and other environmental conditions could influence the growth and quality of the product. For example, the milder environment of specific places is known to yield high-quality grapes.
Human Creativity: Human creativity refers to the knowledge, abilities, and processes used in the production of a product. The cultural and traditional traditions of a place could influence the production methods, processing, and other elements that contribute to the unique features of the product. The ancient methods employed in producing products could influence their taste, scent, and texture.
The Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) under the Ministry of Industry accords this recognition and certificate to the products of Bangladesh in accordance with the principles of the World Property Rights Organization (WIPO). Those who apply for GI are granted intellectual property rights. GI products cannot be recognized at will. The person has to offer documentation that the requested goods is mainly/only available in that country. A committee of DPDT reviews and approves it. It was then published in the organization’s journal. If no one objects to the product then the certificate is issued.
According to DPDT sources, the applicants have given almost all kinds of information in getting GI recognition of these five new products – Yogurt of Bogra and Shitalpati, Tulsimala rice of Sherpur, Langra mango of Chapainawabganj, Ashwina mango of Chapainawabganj. These data have already been published in the journal. If there is no objection in this regard, the final GI status of these products will be given within two months. Seven products are on the list of verification, whether all the remaining seven products will get GI status depends on the data, arguments and objections presented by the applicants.
Jamdani Saree was recognized as the first GI product of Bangladesh. After this, Hilsa Fish, Khirsapati Mango, Dhakai Muslin, Bagda Shrimp, Kalijira Rice, White Soil of Vijaypur, Rajshahi Silk, Shotoronji of Rangpur and Kataribhog Rice of Dinajpur have been recognized one by one. Fazli Mango of Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj was included in this list. Documents are getting developed for so many more products and hopefully, Bangladesh will acquire GI certifications for so many other products in the coming years
GI status is given to three categories of products – naturally occurring, agricultural and handicraft products. If the reputation of a product spreads regionally in a particular area, that product is considered a geographical indication. For this, any organization or person has to apply to DPDT with information. The institute issues the certificate after verification. After that, the product has a unique status in the country.GI certified products are beneficial in the international market. At the same time, export benefits are available. Apart from this, the product plays a major role in branding, the customers are also benefited to get the original product. If a product gets a GI certificate, consumers can rest assured that the product is of good quality.
On April 26th, Bangladesh, along with other nations, observed World Intellectual Property Day 2023. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Women and Intellectual Resources in Accelerating Innovation and Creativity. DPDT and different others government and private organizations celebrated the day through various programs.
GI certified products play a crucial role in branding and assuring customers that they are purchasing an original and quality product. DPDT is currently working on GI certification of products according to the guidelines of the World Property Rights Organization, an international intellectual property body. With this endeavor, the process of certification is projected to gain greater speed, adding considerably to the country’s economic, cultural and heritage aspects growth.
