Japan’s Act for Protection of Names of Designated Agricultural, Forestry and Fishery Products and Foodstuffs (Geographical Indication (GI Act)) came into force on 1 Jun 2015. The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) has begun to accept applications for geographical indications in Japan.
In Japan there are a variety of featured products marketed both at home and abroad. Under the GI protection system introduced by the newly launched GI Act, regional brands will be able to retain their reputation and utilize geographical indications as part of their marketing strategies as a result of the new governmental protection. Registered brand owners will be authorized to have the GI mark printed on their products, and will become the sole owner of the product name in Japan. The application procedure will take approximately half a year.
It has also been revealed that just two days after registration opened there were already around 19 applications submitted for GI protection. The system is deemed favorable for both brand owners and consumers since ensuring the authenticity of products will be given a much needed boost.
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