Highlighting a trademark reputation due to an origin

By Bufete Mejía & Asociados

The National Office of Intelectual Property (DIGEPIH) of Honduras and the Honduran American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) co-organized a training on Geographical Indications and Appellations of Origin.

IP experts from both institutions emphasized the importance of Geographical Indications and Appellations of Origin since both are signs used on products that have a specific origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin, and therefore can strengthen local producers and the country's economy.

The training also looked for attendees to gain a thorough understanding of legal and institutional framework of GIs and AOs.

In order to function as a GI, a sign must identify a product as originating in a given place. In addition, the qualities, characteristics or reputation of the product should be essentially due to the place of origin. Since the qualities depend on the geographical place of production, there is a clear link between the product and its original place of production.

An appellation of origin is a special kind of geographical indication generally consisting of a geographical name or a traditional designation used on products which have a specific quality or characteristics that are essentially due to the geographical environment in which they are produced. Consumers are familiar with these products and often request them – even unknowingly – using their geographical name.