Global Dairy Alliance criticises Geographical Indications

WORLDWIDE – The Global Dairy Alliance has voiced its total opposition to any further WTO rules designed to restrict the naming of dairy products to their original territory of manufacture.

Citing the cheeses Parmesan and Feta, the Alliance, a joint project of the national dairy industries of Argentina, Australia, Brazil, New Zealand and Uruguay, argued that they are generic, global products and that their production should not be limited to Italy and Greece.

“Further rules on these Geographical Indications (GIs) carry the risk of significant damage to producers, manufacturers and consumers around the world, for no obvious benefit in return,” said a statement from the organisation.

The alliance blames the EU for the introduction of rulings on GIs, also known as Products of Designated Origin (PDO), by imposing them through internal law and bilateral trade deals.