Page 400 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 ( Part 2)

The registration of national products under the new GI system opens up broader export
opportunities for them. The initiative aligns with the country's efforts to promote tourism in unique
destinations, achieve resource sustainability, and build a global reputation for national products,
thereby reinforcing the strength and resilience of the national economy.

The event featured two panel discussions: the first highlighted several leading global experiences in
GI tagging national products, while the second showcased successful national models that
demonstrate the quality of GI tagged products and its positive impact on promotion, export, and
national reputation. The Ministry of Economy also honoured the initiative’s partners during the
event in appreciation of their efforts and active role in the development of the system.

The new GI system stands out as an effective tool that advances the country's efforts to foster both
individual and institutional innovation, while protecting intellectual property rights in the UAE in line
with the nation's broader aspirations to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs).

In this regard, the protection of national products through GI tagging contributes to achieving Goal
8, which focuses on ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth,’ by stimulating local production, creating
sustainable job opportunities, and increasing the economic value of products. It also supports the
achievement of Goal 9 related to ‘Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure,’ as it enhances the
development of value chains in both traditional and modern industries, promotes innovation in
production methods, and contributes to building a knowledge-based and quality-driven economy.
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) in its World Intellectual Property Indicators
report 2024 noted that there are more than 58,600 active geographical indications worldwide as of
2023. Europe led the way, accounting for 52.5 percent of registered geographical indications
globally, followed by Asia with 39.5 percent.

The UAE’s Trademarks Law provides comprehensive protection for geographical indications,
recognising them as a form of trademark linked to a specific geographic origin that grants the
product unique characteristics and distinctive quality. The law allows the registration of
geographical indications as a legal right, ensuring their IP ownership and preventing their misuse by
others in ways that could mislead consumers or tarnish the reputation of original products,
provided they are protected in their country of origin.

The law protects registered products from imitation, counterfeiting, or any unauthorised use,
including any misleading presentation or labelling that suggests a false geographic origin, as such
actions negatively impact consumer awareness and the rights of producers. Additionally, the law
prohibits the use of geographical indications in contexts deemed as unfair competition, in
accordance with the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property and the international
agreements applicable in the country, ensuring that national legislations align with global best
practices in this field.

According to the Trademarks Law, a GI tagged product refers to any product originating from a WTO
member country or a specific area or location within that region, where the product’s quality,
reputation, or other characteristics are primarily attributable to its geographic origin. GI tags serve
as a strategic tool to support Emirati products, help protect the nation’s identity and cultural

https://www.wam.ae/en/article/bjkkpnw-ministry-economy-introduces-geographical