Geographical Indications for Products: Registration and Protection in Bulgaria

Geographical indications are an important element of the protection of traditional products associated with specific geographical regions. In Bulgaria, they are registered and protected under the Trademarks and Geographical Indications Act (TMGI). These indications are used to identify products that possess qualities or reputation associated with their geographical origin.

Examples of geographical indications in Bulgaria are:

• Bulgarian rose oil - Produced in the Rose Valley around the towns of Kazanlak and Karlovo, which is world-renowned for its quality and unique properties;
  
• Bulgarian yogurt - Known for its unique bacterium Lactobacillus bulgaricus, which is associated with the region of Bulgaria;
  
• Gornooryahovsky sausage - Traditional Bulgarian dry sausage from the town of Gorna Oryahovitsa;
  
• Panagyurishte sausage - Traditional delicacy from the Panagyurishte region;
  
• Troyan plum brandy - Traditional Bulgarian alcoholic product produced in the Troyan region;
  
• Strandzha honey - A specific type of honey mined in the Strandzha region.
  

These and other similar products are protected from unauthorized use of their name by producers outside the respective regions or who do not meet specific production standards.

Registration of geographical indications

To be registered as geographical indication, the product must meet certain criteria, with the geographical region from which it originates playing a significant role in shaping its characteristics. The registration of geographical indications in Bulgaria is carried out through the Patent Office. This process involves submitting an application containing a description of the product, the geographical area, the production methods and evidence of the link between the product and the geographical region. Once the application is approved, the product is granted protection that prevents the unlawful use of the geographical indication by other producers.

Learn more about new regulation on geographical indications of certain food industry sites (from May 2024)

Protection from competitors

The Trademark and Geographical Indications Act provides legal protection against unfair practices by prohibiting other producers from using the registered geographical indication if their products do not meet established standards or do not originate from the relevant region. Violations of these rights can lead to lawsuits and penalties.

The protection of geographical indications is important not only for preserving the uniqueness and quality of products, but also for promoting the economic development of the regions that produce these products. The registration of geographical indications provides producers with a legal tool to combat competition and protect their commercial interests.

The IPfabrika team offers comprehensive services for the registration and protection of geographical indications in Bulgaria. You can learn more here.. Contact us for more information.

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