China EU agreement on geographical indications benefits consumers of both sides

China and the European Unio signed the "China EU agreement on geographical indications" in Beijing on September 14 to protect 100 European geographical indication products in China and 100 Chinese geographical indication products in the European Unio. The EU believes that this is a landmark bilateral agreement, which will effectively prevent the tampering and imitation of geographical indications, bring trade reciprocity to both sides and bring quality products with quality assurance to consumers. The EU pointed out that the agreement fulfills the commitments reached at the China EU summit and takes compliance with international rules as the basis for trade relations.



"This Agreement reflects the EU's commitment to work closely with global trade partners such as China," said ya voychekhovsky, EU Commissioner for agriculture and rural development. European geographical indication products are famous for their high quality and diversity. It is very important to protect landmarks in the EU and around the world, to ensure the authenticity of landmarks and to protect the reputation of landmarks. The agreement will help to achieve this goal and will also strengthen our trade relations for the benefit of our agro food sector and consumers on both sides. " French agriculture and Food Minister Julian dannomandi said the agreement protected the self-esteem and reputation of French farmers and grape growers, enhanced the technical value of France, and highlighted the mutual respect between Europe and China for their rich culinary and food cultural heritage.



The European Unio is optimistic about the potential of the Chinese market and believes that there is still broad room for European food and beverage growth in the Chinese market. In 2019, China is the third largest export destination of EU agricultural products, with a trade volume of 14.5 billion euro. China is also the EU's second largest export destination of geographical indication products, accounting for 9% of the total value, including wine, agricultural products and spirits. In addition, thanks to the agreement, European consumers will also be able to enjoy Chinese products.



French Foreign Trade Minister Frank Hurst said the agreement with the world's second largest economy would help bring dividends to French agricultural exporters. The agreement will strengthen the economic ties between France and China on the basis of reciprocity and become a milestone in the protection of the rights of French companies. Benedi charang, head of the international business of Gabriel cheese sales company in France, believes that China will continue to optimize its business environment and the market will become more and more open and convenient. The agreement will bring important opportunities to Europe, from which both operators and consumers will benefit.



It is reported that the list of geographical indications protected by the EU in China includes landmark products, such as kava, champagne, feta cheese, Irish whisky, Munich beer, uzzo anise, Polish vodka, port wine, Parma ham and monteggo cheese. In China's list of geographical indication products, including Pixian Douban, Anji white tea, Panjin rice and Anqiu ginger, etc. As early as 2012, China and the EU started cooperation to protect their 10 geographical indication names.