European Parliament event celebrates Irish Whiskey GI recognition

The GI designation provides protection against imitation and counterfeit products while also creating market exclusivity

The Irish Whiskey Association had the honour of showcasing the all-island Geographical Indication (GI) for Irish Whiskey at the European Parliament event in Strasbourg.

Director of the Irish Whiskey Association, Eoin Ó Catháin, highlighted the advantages of GI recognition, protecting Irish Whiskey’s origin and ensuring top-quality standards.

This designation safeguards the sector against imitation or counterfeit products and enhances market exclusivity, preserving jobs and elevating the product’s value.

The Irish Whiskey Association, together with the Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac (BNIC), the Consorzio del Formaggio Parmigiano Reggiano, and the Organization for an International Geographical Indications Network (oriGIn), participated in a roundtable event hosted by Arnaud Danjean MEP (EPP, France) and attended by MEPs from various political groups.

The Irish Whiskey Association’s top priorities for the upcoming European elections in June 2024 will focus on safeguarding and fortifying the GI system.

Eoin Ó Catháin, director, Irish Whiskey Association, said: “95% of Irish Whiskey is exported, with the value of these exports exceeding €1 billion in 2022. Irish Whiskey manufacturers and exporters are operating in extremely competitive global markets, and every advantage and support is important in winning market share. Our GI designation plays an important role in this regard.

“All efforts must be made to continue to progress the trade agenda with established and emerging trade partners — and protect our GIs as part of these negotiations.

“Due to Irish Whiskey’s unique status spanning two jurisdictions, additional work is often needed in trade negotiations, particularly on rules-of-origin. The commitment of EU and UK negotiators in this regard was commended at the European Parliament event” concluded Ó Catháin.