European stakeholders chart future of geographical indications at Brussels conference

On June 25 and 26, more than 200 stakeholders from across the European Union gathered in Brussels to discuss the future of Geographical Indications (GIs) in Europe. The event, organized by oriGIn EU, EFOW, and AREPO as part of the GI SMART project, brought together producers, policymakers, regional authorities, and researchers. The conference aimed to address the current state of GIs and explore strategies for their development over the next three decades.

The opening remarks came from Christophe Hansen, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Food. He highlighted that GIs have been a cornerstone of European food policy for 30 years, providing recognition to products that reflect the continent’s traditions and quality. Hansen emphasized that these labels not only help producers and rural economies but also offer opportunities for growth by expanding into international markets. He called on participants to use the conference as a platform for sharing ideas and building partnerships to strengthen the GI system.

Adam Nowak, Polish Undersecretary of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, spoke about the priorities of the Polish Presidency. He stressed that food security, competitiveness in agriculture, crisis resilience, and stable farmer incomes are central goals. Nowak pointed out that GIs support these aims by creating jobs, promoting sustainable resource management, and driving economic growth in rural areas. He described GIs as symbols of European quality and tradition that need continued support in a changing world.

Throughout the two-day event, participants discussed several challenges facing the GI sector. These included uneven adoption of GIs across regions due to differences in resources and capacity, legal uncertainties about protection within the EU, high costs for securing GI status outside Europe and online, and low consumer awareness. Attendees also noted the importance of supporting young and small-scale producers, improving climate resilience within GI frameworks, and linking GIs more closely with tourism and regional development.

Charles Deparis, President of oriGIn EU, stated that GIs deliver economic, social, environmental, and cultural benefits. However, he said that unlocking their full potential will require stronger legal protection and enforcement, broader access for producers, and greater visibility among consumers.

Alessandro Beduschi, President of AREPO, highlighted the role of regional authorities in supporting GIs. He announced a new Europe-wide survey to assess how well the recently adopted GI Regulation (EU) 2024/1143 is working. This survey will collect data and feedback from stakeholders to inform future policy decisions. Beduschi encouraged all stakeholders to join the newly launched GI SMART Community Platform to help shape future EU GI policy.

Riccardo Ricci Curbastro, President of EFOW, thanked EU officials who participated in the discussions. He addressed European institutions directly, saying that a strong GI policy is essential for maintaining the resilience and independence of Europe’s agri-food sector amid global instability and trade pressures. Curbastro called for GIs to be central to the next Common Agricultural Policy after 2027. He urged for dedicated funding, regulatory support, sustainability measures, competitiveness initiatives, and protection both within Europe and internationally. He also pressed the European Commission to publish its Geographical Indications Action Plan soon.

The conference concluded with a call for continued collaboration among all stakeholders. Organizers stressed that this event marks the beginning of a broader movement to ensure that GIs remain a key part of Europe’s agricultural identity and economic strategy in the years ahead.