Japan: Japan Ramps Up Domestic GI Roll-out Ahead of June 1 Implementation
On April 14, 2015, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) resumed domestic efforts to promote the Japanese Geographical Indication (GI) system by launching a series of nine public information sessions across Japan. The new system will enter into force on June 1, 2015 (see GAIN JA5008 for a more detailed description of the Japanese GI system). In addition to a detailed explanation of the application process, MAFF officials answered audience questions, noting that foreign products without GI status are eligible to register under the Japanese GI system. MAFF’s emphasis on GIs underscores the importance the Government of Japan now places on developing Japan’s agricultural export potential.
Japan: Japan Ramps Up Domestic GI Roll-out Ahead of June 1 Implementation