SpiritsEUROPE commends EU for new GI system
The Geographical Indications system is of fundamental importance for Europe’s spirits sector (Photo by Jonas Horsch via Pexels)
SpiritsEUROPE commended the council and the European Parliament for having reached an agreement on updated regulations for the EU’s Geographical Indications (GI) system concerning agricultural products, foodstuffs, wines, and spirit drinks. The new rules will ensure strong protection of spirits drinks and support comprehensive, sustainability initiatives in producer communities.
With more than 250 EU spirit GIs and GI spirits making up two thirds of EU spirits exports, the Geographical Indications system is of fundamental importance for Europe’s spirits sector. Protecting long-standing local traditions whilst guaranteeing highest production and quality standards, GI spirits are a hallmark of social, economic and environmental sustainability.
Other important points addressed in the revision have been the future role of GI producer groups both inside and outside the EU as well as the protection of GI spirits when used in foods and in the online environment.
Ulrich Adam, director general, spiritsEUROPE, said: “GIs spirits are a best-case example of how comprehensive sustainability approaches can grow and develop organically over time in local communities which produce, enjoy and share these high-quality products. The new rules will structurally support our continuous sustainability journey in the years ahead.”
Sarah Melina Siebel, director, Internal Market and Sustainability, said: “Sustainability is a way of life deeply rooted in the terroir in which fine spirits are produced – and as diverse as European landscapes, climates and communities. Sustainability in the south of Spain may look different to sustainability in Germany’s Münsterland. The new rules will reinforce ambition on our shared sustainability objective, yet allow flexibility for different pathways to develop and progress locally.”
