A new GI regulation for Australia: What is the added value?

This on-line Policy Forum considers what value might be added by introducing to Australia an EU-style GI sui generis registration system. Geographical Indications (GIs) are a make or break issue for the European Union (EU) in its trade negotiations. One part of the EU demand in current negotiations with Australia is that Australia adopt an EU-style GI sui generis registration system. The government is currently consulting on this proposal. This on-line Policy Forum considers what value might be added by introducing such a new regulatory system. It asks what is the demonstrated need or demand for a new regulatory system for food GIs. This includes information from producers and analysis of current protection systems. It considers, in particular, the case of cheese where Australia’s pattern and distribution of cheese production is very different to that in Europe. This raises the question of the product scope of any new GI regulations. The Forum also addresses some critical lessons in ensuring that any GI registration system is as streamlined and efficient as possible. The Panel Paula Zito, food geographical indications consultant and Associate teacher in Law, Adelaide Law School, University of Adelaide; Charlie McElhone, Group Manager, Trade & Industry Strategy, Dairy Australia; and Hazel Moir, Adjunct Associate Professor at the ANU Centre for European Studies (ANUCES) There will be substantial opportunity for participation and questions or comments.