​A Geographical Indication (GI) is a trade-related intellectual property right under the WTO TRIPS Agreement. GIs have a distinctive impact on development compared to other forms of trade-related intellectual property rights because of their link between the territory and the uniqueness of a product. Since 2010, UNCTAD has been assisting selected rural communities in LDCs in the promotion of traditional products through GIs.

In collaboration with the Global Governance Programme of the European University Institute (EUI), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Intellectual Property Organization, on 8 - 9 October 2018 UNCTAD will present the 1st Executive Workshop on GIs for LDC delegates. The workshop is part of the United Nations Development Account Programme on Statistics and Data, as one element of the UNCTAD initiative to foster research and training programs for the LDC Group at the WTO in the post-Nairobi scenario. This is part of an overall UNCTAD effort to support the coordination of the LDC Group at the WTO, and the capacity of LDC Delegates to effectively participate in trade negotiations.

Building on UNCTAD’s technical expertise, as well as inputs from external experts and LDC experiences, the workshop will emphasize the potential of GIs as a development tool for traditional products and territories in LDCs. The delegates will be trained on the legal concept and protection of GIs, including the identification of potential products and implementing procedures. The seminar will also provide an opportunity to discuss lessons learned from GI implementation by LDCs.