The China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) has announced the implementation of the new "Measures for the Protection of Geographical Indication Products," effective February 1st. This comprehensive legal framework, comprising seven chapters and 36 articles, represents a significant enhancement from the "Regulations on the Protection of Geographical Indications" established in 2005 by the former General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine.

The Measures aim to intensify the use of Geographical Indications (GIs) in boosting regional specialty industries, fostering diplomacy and foreign trade, encouraging investment, preserving traditional culture, and supporting rural revitalization.

CNIPA's role in this new regime is pivotal. It is tasked with receiving, examining, and accrediting GI products in compliance with stringent legal standards. The Measures delineate the definition, essential features of GI products, and specific criteria for accreditation denial. They streamline examination processes, incorporate opposition procedures, and establish protocols for modifications and cancellations. A notable inclusion in the Measures is the explicit requirement for GI products to exhibit four distinct characteristics: authenticity, territoriality, specificity, and relevance.

China's diverse GI products, like Pingyao beef, Fenghuang Dancong tea, and Ili lavender essential oil, have significantly contributed to the country's culture and economy. By the end of 2023, 2,508 GI products were approved in China, generating an annual output exceeding 800 billion yuan.

The GI Measures propose a unified administrative approach and enhanced standards to protect GI products, fostering efficiency and fairness while promoting growth for both domestic and foreign GI products.