Understanding Geographical Indications: Online Learning Course

Geographical indications (GIs) identify products whose quality, characteristics or reputation are linked to their geographical origin. They help preserve traditional knowledge, promote local value creation and enable producers to distinguish their products in the marketplace.

This learning programme consists of five modules that provide an introduction to GIs. You will explore the concept and legal foundations of GIs, learn how they are protected at national and international level, understand the registration process, and discover the key factors that contribute to successful GI initiatives.

 

Module 1 - General introduction to geographical indications

This module introduces geographical indications, their history and legal foundations, and explains why protecting them matters for producers and consumers.

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Module 2 - The legal basis for geographical indications in Switzerland

This module explains the legal framework for geographical indications in Switzerland, tracing its historical development and outlining how GIs are registered, managed and protected.

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Module 3 - National and international protection of GIs

This module explains how Geographical Indications (GIs) are protected at national and international level, comparing legal protection systems and outlining the key mechanisms used to safeguard GIs across borders.

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Module 4 - How to register a denomination as a GI

This module explains how to register a Geographical Indication, from assessing eligibility and drafting product specifications to certification, application procedures, and international protection.

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Module 5 - Success factors for GI initiatives

This module explores the factors that drive successful GI initiatives, showing how effective management, marketing, sustainability, and collaboration can create lasting value for producers and regions.

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Dive into the world of Swiss GIs

 

Discover the world of Geographical Indications (GIs) and learn why products such as Formaggio d’Alpe Ticinese, Rheintaler Ribelmais and Jambon de la Borne are much more than regional specialities.
This film explains how origin, traditional know-how and local environmental conditions shape the quality, reputation and identity of unique products. It also shows how Geographical Indications protect producers, preserve cultural heritage and help consumers identify authentic, high-quality products.

 
 

Contact for more information

Reto Meili – Project Coordinator
Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property – IPI
reto.meilinot shown@ipito make life hard for spam bots.ch | +41 31 377 72 71

 

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