Page 414 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 ( Part 2)

5/22/25, 3:32 PM Ministry of Economy introduces geographical indications for national products – UAE BARQ
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 heritage and solidify the UAE’s position on the global stage. They represent a link
between the past and the present, contributing to economic sustainability by supporting traditional industries and local
projects.

GI tagging also plays a crucial role in supporting entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by
providing sustainable economic opportunities, distinguishing their products in local and international markets, and
contributing to the diversification of the national economy.

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