EU allows crafts to use protected labels from porcelain to tweed

Starting Monday, traditional European craftsfrom French Limoges porcelain to Irish Donegal tweedreceived official EU protected status, placing them on equal footing with renowned agricultural products like Champagne and Parma ham.

Under the new scheme, artisans including glassblowers, potters, and jewellers can now register their product names as part of the European Union's geographical indication (GI) system for craft and industrial goods. This builds on the established framework long used for food and beverages.

The regulation, approved in 2023 and effective December 1, aims to protect "emblematic items such as Bohemian glass, Limoges porcelain, Solingen knives, and Donegal tweed, whose reputation and quality are tied to their origin," according to the European Commission.

Geographical indications serve as intellectual property rights that associate a products qualities, reputation, or characteristics with its place of origin. For years, craftspeople and members of the European Parliament have advocated expanding GI protection to non-food items to combat counterfeiting and bolster the affected industries.

The new law leverages over three decades of experience with agricultural GIs, which currently protect more than 3,600 product names, generate around 75 billion ($87 billion) in annual revenue, and make up roughly 15% of EU food and drink exports.

The registration process for regional crafts will involve two steps: initially at the national level, followed by approval at the EU level.

"This initiative not only preserves the unique expertise and heritage of our artisans but also opens new avenues for growth, employment, and small and medium-sized enterprises," stated the EUs industry chief, Stephane Sejourne.

Author: Sophia Brooks