Developing Geographical Indications in the South

This book contributes to the literature on Geographical Indications (GIs) by providing key theoretical reflections from a five-year review process on the potential of GIs for agri-food products in Southern Africa. The contributors reflect on diverse GI processes and dynamics which operate at the local, national and international levels, thus enriching the understanding of GI dynamics and of the variety of policy options available for GI protection in Southern countries. Following a discussion of the legal framework and governance of national GI schemes in Southern countries, the book emphasizes the main dimensions underlying the development of GIs and their potential for enhancing sustainable rural development and market access in particular. This provides the structure for the chapters that build on the different experiences of Southern African industries that have embarked on GI strategies. The book includes chapters on designing an appropriate legal framework and governance system for the development of GIs in Southern countries.

Provides key theoretical reflections from a five-year process of reviewing the potential of introducing systems to protect geographical identity for certain food and natural products in the Southern African region Analyses the TRIPS agreement and the important policy space it has created at national level for countries to decide on appropriate legal and institutional approaches to geographical indication protection Shows how the geographical indication instrument itself can be used in highly diverse ways at product level, thus adding to the richness of the instrument Helps assess the multifaceted nature of geographical indications proposed as an instrument for strengthening and securing market access and for promoting rural development, and also for conserving biodiversity and indigenous knowledge

Inhalt
Preface.- 1. Why the need to consider GIs in the South? .- 2. Designing an appropriate legal framework and governance system for GI development in Southern countries.- 3. Collective action dynamics and product reputation.- 4. Private versus public quality schemes for origin-labelled products: Insights from the Karakul pelts and Camdeboo mohair industries.- 5. Institution building and local industry dynamics: Lessons from the Rooibos GI initiative.- 6. Guidelines for selecting successful GI products.