EU/Georgia Agreement: protection of geographical indications of agricultural products and foodstuffs

PURPOSE: to conclude the Agreement between the European Union and Georgia on protection of geographical indications of agricultural products and foodstuffs.

NON-LEGISLATIVE ACT: Council Decision 2012/164/EU on the conclusion of the Agreement between the European Union and Georgia on protection of geographical indications of agricultural products and foodstuffs

BACKGROUND: the Commission has negotiated, on behalf of the Union, an agreement between the European Union and Georgia on protection of geographical indications of agricultural products and foodstuffs. 

In accordance with Council Decision 2011/620/EU, the Agreement was signed on 14 July 2011, subject to its conclusion.

The Agreement should be approved.

CONTENT: this Decision approves the Agreement between the European Union and Georgia on protection of geographical indications of agricultural products and foodstuffs is hereby approved on behalf of the Union.

The Agreement will enable the reciprocal protection of the geographical indications of the respective Parties and will contribute to the approximation of legislation among the EU neighbouring countries.

The agreement provides for a mutual protection of geographical indications (PDOs and PGIs) protected in the respective Parties, in order to improve the conditions of bilateral trade as well as to promote the quality in the food chain and stimulate the value for sustainable rural development.

The Agreement also lays down:

·        the internal procedure for establishing representation of the Union on matters relating to the Agreement;

·        certain tasks for implementation which have been attributed to the Joint Committee established by the Agreement, including the power to amend certain technical aspects of the Agreement as well as certain Annexes.

ENTRY INTO FORCE: the Decision enters into force on 14 February 2012.