World Food Law Symposium-Geographical Indications for Foods: Exploring Local Origin, Community Development and Intellectual Property Rights

The World Food Law Institute, in cooperation with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the American Society of International Law (ASIL) presents the 2018 World Food Law Symposium on 31 May 2018. The Symposium will conclude the Institute’s 2017-2018 Geographical Indications Round Table Series by continuing discussions and developing previous analyses about the legal, policy, cultural and community development aspects of geographical indications – a particular form of intellectual property whose use for foods is expanding globally. The morning will begin with a presentation by the GIs expert at the World Intellectual Property Organization. Then the focus lead will shift to FAO experts and a panel, who will introduce and discuss a new FAO report “Strengthening sustainable food systems through geographical indications: An analysis of economic impacts”.”. The Report is a significant contribution to our understanding of the costs and benefits of Gis and their role in development, using case studies from Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the United States. The morning will conclude with a Geographical Indications Luncheon. Two afternoon panels will present case studies. The first panel will consider case studies of geographical indications. The second panel will explore how U.S. communities use labels and certification marks to promote their local foods. The Symposium will conclude with Special Remarks, followed by a Networking Reception featuring GI and local foods and beverages.